The Picture of Dorian Gray (Adaptation) characters

Appears from the start

A remarkably handsome young man whose portrait Basil Hallward is painting. At first inexperienced and open-hearted, he becomes newly conscious of his youth and beauty after meeting Lord Henry Wotton.

Appears from the start

A serious artist who regards his portrait of Dorian as his finest work. He is deeply attached to Dorian and worries that Lord Henry's clever, cynical ideas will have a damaging influence on him.

Also known as Harry

Appears from the start

Basil's worldly friend, a wealthy and persuasive aristocrat who delights in provocative theories about pleasure, morality, and society. His praise of youth and beauty immediately fascinates Dorian.

First appears in chapter 3

A beautiful young actress performing in a poor London theatre. Dorian falls in love with the heroines she portrays before he knows her well outside the theatre, while she sees him as a romantic figure from a different world.

First appears in chapter 4

Sibyl's protective brother, preparing to leave England as a sailor. Suspicious of the unknown gentleman courting his sister, he makes clear that he will defend her if she is harmed.

First appears in chapter 4

Sibyl and James's mother, a former actress concerned with the family's debts and her daughter's future. She is more impressed than James by the wealth and position of Sibyl's admirer.

First appears in chapter 6

A scientist who was once close to Dorian but now wants no association with him. Dorian seeks him out because his chemical knowledge can solve an urgent and disturbing problem.

First appears in chapter 8

A young woman from a country village whom Dorian has been courting. He presents his decision not to take advantage of her affection as evidence that he may still be able to change his life.