Alison Larkin Presents The Picture of Dorian Gray characters
By Oscar Wilde
Every entry below is hidden until you open it, and each names the chapter the character first appears in.
Dorian Gray (Protagonist)
First appears in chapter 2
A wealthy young Londoner whose extraordinary beauty makes a powerful impression on everyone around him. Initially inexperienced and eager for approval, he becomes preoccupied with preserving his youth after seeing Basil's portrait of him.
Basil Hallward (Supporting)
Appears from the start
A painter whose finest work is a portrait of Dorian Gray. He is devoted to Dorian and worries that public exhibition of the painting would reveal too much of his own emotional investment in its subject.
Lord Henry Wotton (Supporting)
Also known as Harry
Appears from the start
Basil's witty, provocative friend, a married aristocrat who treats conventional morality with amused skepticism. He is fascinated by Dorian's innocence and quickly begins shaping the younger man's ideas about beauty, pleasure, and influence.
Sibyl Vane (Supporting)
First appears in chapter 4
A gifted young actress performing Shakespeare in a shabby London theater. Dorian falls in love with her stage presence before he understands much about her life away from performance.
James Vane (Supporting)
First appears in chapter 5
Sibyl's protective younger brother, about to leave England as a sailor. He distrusts the unknown gentleman courting her and promises to defend her if she is harmed.
Mrs. Vane (Minor)
First appears in chapter 5
Sibyl and James's mother, an actress who manages a life of chronic financial insecurity. She is pleased by Dorian's wealth and social position, while James is more concerned with his sister's safety.
Lady Agatha (Minor)
First appears in chapter 3
Lord Henry's aunt, known for charitable gatherings and an active social circle. Dorian meets her guests at lunch as Lord Henry's influence over him begins to deepen.
Lord Fermor (Minor)
First appears in chapter 3
Lord Henry's uncle, an elderly aristocrat whose appetite for family history and social gossip makes him a useful source of information about Dorian's parentage.
Alan Campbell (Supporting)
First appears in chapter 14
A scientist and former friend of Dorian whose specialized knowledge makes him useful in a crisis. By the time Dorian seeks him out, their friendship has ended and Campbell wants no further connection with him.
The Duchess of Monmouth (Minor)
First appears in chapter 17
A socially prominent woman in Lord Henry's circle who meets Dorian during a country-house visit. Their light conversation reflects the fashionable world that continues to welcome Dorian despite the rumors around him.
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