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Cover of The Picture of Dorian Gray

Classics · Horror

The Picture of Dorian Gray

by Oscar Wilde

4.0 out of 5, from 2,815 ratings from Hardcover readers

A beautiful young man wishes he could stay young while his portrait ages. Under the influence of the witty Lord Henry, he pursues pleasure with no concern for consequence.

Facts last checked 2026-10-16

First published
1890
Pace
Medium
Length
Short
Pages
305
Format
Standalone
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Read this if you like sparkling epigrams and a gothic story about vanity and corruption.

Skip this if you dislike long, talky passages or morally unredeemed characters.

The feel

Content warnings

  • Death
  • Suicide
  • Violence
  • Manipulation

Also reported by Hardcover readers:

  • Murder
  • Misogyny
  • Toxic friendship
  • Sexism
  • Racism
  • Alcohol
  • Blood

Quick answers about The Picture of Dorian Gray

What is The Picture of Dorian Gray about?
A beautiful young man wishes he could stay young while his portrait ages. Under the influence of the witty Lord Henry, he pursues pleasure with no concern for consequence.
Who should read The Picture of Dorian Gray?
Read it if you like sparkling epigrams and a gothic story about vanity and corruption. Skip it if you dislike long, talky passages or morally unredeemed characters.
How long and how fast is The Picture of Dorian Gray?
It is a medium-paced, short read of about 305 pages, first published in 1890.
Does The Picture of Dorian Gray have content warnings?
Content we flag: Death, Suicide, Violence, Manipulation.
Can I borrow The Picture of Dorian Gray for free?
Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends The Picture of Dorian Gray; the borrow button above searches it for you.
What should I read after The Picture of Dorian Gray?
Readers who liked it often move on to Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, The Secret History, Frankenstein.

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