Treasury of World Masterpieces: Oscar Wilde

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Oscar Wilde

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This volume features the works of Oscar Wilde, an influential Irish writer and poet. His only novel, a classic of gothic horror fiction, follows Dorian Gray, a young man whose beauty captivates artist Basil Hallward. Basil becomes infatuated with Dorian, believing his beauty inspires a new artistic vision. Upon meeting Lord Henry Wotton, Dorian is seduced by Henry's hedonistic worldview, which prioritizes beauty and sensory fulfillment. Fearing the loss of his youth, Dorian wishes to sell his soul so that his portrait ages instead of him. This wish leads him into a life of debauchery, with the portrait reflecting the toll of his sins. The collection also includes Wilde's short stories and plays, showcasing his storytelling prowess and stylistic range. Notable selections are "Lord Arthur Savile's Crime," "The Canterville Ghost," and "The Importance of Being Earnest," which humorously critiques Victorian society through characters who adopt false identities. Additionally, "De Profundis," a letter written during Wilde's imprisonment, expresses his disillusionment with Lord Alfred Douglas. "The Ballad of Reading Gaol," composed after his release, memorializes a fellow inmate facing execution. Wilde believed art should guide life by pursuing beauty, emphasizing the importance of the soul and individual self-understanding.