The Picture of Dorian Gray #1

Dorian Gray is first introduced when he sits for Basil's portrait. Basil is obviously infatuated with Dorian's presence, and Dorian clearly loves the attention. The young man understands the extent of the artist's care for him, and he uses this knowledge to make Basil give him what he wants. When Lord Henry announces his departure, Dorian threatens to leave in order to make Basil ask Lord Henry to stay: "If Lord Henry Wotton goes I shall go too" (12). Dorian displays his skills in manipulation though his exchange with Basil. He is interested in getting what he want and does not care how it makes Basil feel. Basil enjoys their alone time, which is why he wants Lord Henry to leave, but Dorian wants to spend time with Lord Henry because he is intrigued by his character.

After Basil finishes the portrait of Dorian, the young man has an emotional episode at the sight of the painting. He is influence by Lord Henry's rant about growing old. At the sight of the portrait Dorian says, "How sad it is! I shall grow old, and horrible, and dreadful. But this picture will remain always young" (19). Dorian is upset because he greatly values his appearance. He receives praise and admiration stemming from his appearance, which is why he is affected by the thought of losing his good looks. Although Dorian is blatantly vain, his reaction to the painting stemms from the beliefs of Lord Henry, showing that he is easily influenced.

When Dorian Gray announces his engagement to Sibyl Vane, it appears as though he has become a less self-obsessed character. When discussing his fiance with Basil and Lord Henry, Dorian raves about his new love: "She had all the delicate grace of that Tanagra figurine that you have in your studio, Basil. Her hair clustered round her face like dark leaves round a pale rose. As for her acting- well, you shall see her to-night. She is simply a born artist" (55). Dorian's infatuation with Sibyl contrasts his previously displayed vanity and self-obsession. Rather than accepting praise from others, Dorian is granting praise to someone else. Dorian shows that he cares about another person, which contrasts his previous treatment of Basil. The young man's love for the young actress makes him appear less selfish.

Although Dorian appears to be taking steps towards a more selfless life, he directly contrasts his pronounced love for Sibyl Vane when he breaks her heart after her poor acting display, After Lord Henry comments on Sibyl's terrible acting, Dorian goes backstage to speak with her. After discovering she is not ill, he speak cruelly to the young woman: "You have killed my love. You used to stir my imagination, Now you don't even stir my curiosity" (63). Sibyl's previously wonderful acting made Dorian fall in love with her, which is why he is so upset that she is unable to perform gloriously. Additionally, he is embarrassed that Sibyl fell short of expectations in front of his friends. He irrationally breaks the engagement because he is offended by her poor acting. He is cruel to the young woman because he suddenly decides not to love her anymore because of his selfish mindset. Dorian decides that Sibyl is not good enough for him, blatantly displaying his shallowness.