hat is the primary purpose of chapter 1 in "The Picture of Dorian Gray" (What is Wilde trying to establish or set-up)? What are some of the key takeaways? Use at least one piece of text evidence to support your thinking.

Answer 1

In Chapter 1 of "The Picture of Dorian Gray," Oscar Wilde primarily establishes the aesthetic and philosophical themes that will underpin the novel. This chapter introduces Lord Henry Wotton, a hedonistic character who embodies the idea of aestheticism, contrasted with the more conventional values represented by Basil Hallward, the artist. Wilde sets up the tension between beauty, morality, and the influence of art through their conversation.

Key takeaways from this chapter include the introduction of the idea that beauty can lead to moral ambiguity and the exploration of the relationship between art and the artist. Lord Henry's influence on Dorian is foreshadowed, establishing a premise that will carry throughout the story.

One piece of text evidence that illustrates this dynamic is when Lord Henry states, "The only thing worth having is a good title." This quote reflects his belief in superficial attributes and foreshadows how he will ultimately influence Dorian's views on beauty and morality. Wilde uses this chapter to introduce critical themes of aestheticism and the impact of external influences on personal identity, setting the stage for Dorian’s eventual moral decline.