Contents

Acknowledgements

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 Introduction to Oscar Wilde-1

1.2 Introduction to The Picture of Dorian Gray-2

1.3 Structure of the Thesis-3

Chapter Two Gothic Novel-4

2.1 Definition and Development of Gothic-4

2.2 Prominent Elements In Gothic Novels-5

Chapter Three Analysis of Gothic Elements In the Novel-6

3.1 Main Characters-6

3.1.1 Vicious Protagonist Dorian-6

3.1.2 Unmerciful Lord Henry-7

3.1.3 Innocent Basil Hallward-8

3.2 Gothic Plots-9

3.2.1 The Grotesque Picture-9

3.2.2 The Horrible Murder of the Painter-10

3.3 Gothic Themes-11

3.3.1 Revelation of the Homosexual Love-11

3.3.2 Conflict Between Art, Life and Morality-12

Chapter Four Conclusion-14

References-15

Abstract

Oscar Wilde (1854-1900), one of the greatest writers and artists in Britain, is famous for his plays, poetry, novels and fairy tales. Also, he is a pioneer of Aesthetic Movement in the nineteenth century in Britain. The Picture of Dorian Gray is Wilde’s only novel published in 1891. It focuses on the protagonist Dorian’s soul degradation and self-decadence. 

The picture of Dorian Gray is a perfect expression of Wilde’s aesthetic ideas. A lot of gothic elements exist in the novel. Based on the theory of gothic novel, the paper tends to present a detailed analysis of the gothic elements in the novel, including gothic characters, gothic plots and gothic themes. Through the application of gothic technique, Wilde expresses his condemnation of the decadent Victorian Britain, his concern about the repression of society on human nature and his belief that the good will prevail over evil. It is hoped that through this paper, readers can have a better understanding of the novel and the author.

Key words: The picture of Dorian Gray  Wilde  gothic characters  gothic plots  gothic themes