Chapter 5

Elaine Shiao

Summary of Chapter 5

Sibyl Vane is deliriously delighted about her romance with Dorian Grey in the Vane family. Her mother, Mrs. Vane, is less excited; she both expresses concern about Dorian's motivations and hopes that her daughter will gain something from his apparent wealth. James, Sibyl's brother, is likewise apprehensive about the match. James appears as a sailor getting ready to go for Australia. He tells his mother that she needs to keep an eye on Sibyl. Mrs. Vane reassures him that actresses frequently have admirers like Dorian Grey and that there is no reason why they shouldn't "contract an alliance" with someone so affluent. James takes Sibyl for a stroll because he is getting frustrated with his mother's "affectations." James can't get rid of the sensation that he is abandoning his sister at the wrong moment. He questions Dorian's motivations as well as his mother's capacity to shield Sibyl from them. James finally questions Sibyl regarding her suitor. He cautions her about Dorian, but Sibyl continues to talk about how wonderful her new boyfriend is. Dorian passes in an open carriage as Sibyl watches "the smart people go by" from where they are sitting. James makes a ferocious vow to find Dorian's "Prince Charming" and murder him if he ever does her any harm. Sibyl swears she will always be loyal to Dorian. James approaches his mother later that evening and inquires as to whether she was ever wed to his father. After that. Mrs. Vane replies ’no’, and James, now more worried than ever, pleads his mother to not let Sibyl share the same fate she did to which Mrs. Vane shows a passive response to. Before the chapter ends, James pledges to kill Dorian should he do any harm to Sibyl.

Thesis statement:

In Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’, he communicates a profound critique of societal norms, hypocrisy, the bridge between illusion and reality, and the constraints imposed by Victorian society, while advocating for individual freedom, the pursuit of aestheticism, and the recognition of the intrinsic value of art through the use of metaphors, dramatic irony, similes, and paradoxes.

Central themes

Aestheticism

Victorian Hypocrisy

Illusion vs. Reality

Bonus theme: Language of Flowers

The language of flowers, or floriography, serves as a symbolic means of communication, conveying hidden meanings and emotions. Flowers in the novel symbolise the characters' inner thoughts and moral decay, acting as a reflection of their desires and intentions. They align with the principles of aestheticism, emphasising the pursuit of beauty and sensory pleasures. As the story progresses, the flowers mirror Dorian's moral deterioration, withering and decaying alongside his corrupted soul. This visual transformation highlights the transient nature of external beauty and the eternal nature of moral decay, contrasting with the aging portrait of Dorian Gray. Overall, the language of flowers in the novel adds depth, symbolism, and thematic richness, enhancing the exploration of beauty, corruption, and the consequences of one's actions.

Flowers are employed as a language of subtle symbolism, mirroring the aesthetic ideals of the era. For instance, the yellow roses that Dorian sends to Sibyl Vane symbolize his passionate love for her, while the withering white jasmine represents the decay of their relationship after she fails to meet his expectations. Similarly, the poisonous flower, the "yellow book," acts as a metaphor for the corrupting influence on Dorian's soul.
The language of flowers also acts as an indirect parallel of how aestheticism was viewed as a universal belief back in Victorian England.
The presence of flowers and their descriptions enriches the sensory experience of the novel. The vivid descriptions of blooms, their colors, scents, and textures, create a lush and vivid imagery that immerses the reader in the world of the story. This sensory richness adds to the overall atmosphere by evoking a sense of beauty, sensuality, and aesthetic pleasure.
Flowers, with their ephemeral nature, represent the fleeting quality of physical beauty and the inevitable passage of time. As the narrative unfolds and Dorian's moral corruption deepens, the descriptions of flowers often shift from vibrant and lively to withered and decaying, mirroring the degradation of his soul and the consequences of his hedonistic pursuits.
Lastly, the language of flowers in the novel creates an atmosphere that is both enticing and haunting. It adds depth to the themes explored in the story, engages the senses of the reader, and captures the conflicting elements of beauty and decay that permeate the narrative.

Quotes:

‘I shudder at the thought of being free.’ - Sibyl Vane
‘She did not listen. She was in her prison of passion.’
‘To be in love is to surpass one’s self.’ - Sibyl Vane
‘The brightly coloured parasols danced and dipped like monstrous butterflies.’

The fairy, trapped within a cage, waiting for her saviour, in 'Der Goldene Vogel' -- Brothers Grimm

-- Quote 1 analysis --

The character Sibyl Vane utters the quote, "I shudder at the thought of being free." This statement serves as a powerful example of irony, specifically dramatic irony. In this case, the irony lies in Sibyl Vane's fear of freedom, which runs contrary to conventional notions of liberation and self-expression. While she believes that freedom is something to be dreaded, the readers understand the ironic sentiments within. Through this line, Oscar Wilde communicates a profound critique of societal norms, hypocrisy, and the constraints imposed by Victorian society as Sibyl Vane's quote exposes the paradoxical nature of society's expectations and the limitations they impose on individuals-- In Victorian society, there was a rigid set of moral and social codes that dictated how individuals should behave and conform to societal standards and Sibyl Vane, as a young actress, is trapped within the confines of these societal expectations. Her fear of freedom stems from the consequences she anticipates for deviating from the prescribed roles and expectations assigned to her. Moreover, Sibyl's identity and self-worth are intimately tied to her ability to conform to societal ideals and maintain her image as the perfect, virtuous woman. By linking Sibyl Vane's quote to a broader interpreation of how a patriarchal society functioned, Oscar Wilde invites readers to examine the cost of conformity and the stifling effects of societal expectations. Through dramatic irony, he highlights the absurdity of a society that denies individuals the freedom to express their true selves and instead fosters a culture of repression and pretense. Moreover, Wilde's critique extends beyond the Victorian era and resonates with broader themes of personal freedom and societal constraints that are relevant even today. By employing such techniques, he masterfully exposes the contradictions and limitations inherent in societal norms, encouraging readers to question and challenge the oppressive forces that restrict individuality and authenticity.

The reason why I chose 'Der Goldene Vogel' By Brothers Grimm as a literary link to 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' was because both of them include a similar message-- In a sense, both stories teach us that no matter how much joy or contentment we may feel in tangible, material objects, true happiness can only be found when we are in our natural environment and living in harmony with our true nature, ultimately, happiness can only be found when one is at peace with one's own soul. This isn't the only message that shares similarities with Dorian's story, but there are also other themes such as the consequences of immorality-- In 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' Dorian's immoral actions and pursuit of pleasure lead to the decay of his soul, while his portrait bears the physical manifestation of his sins. Similarly, in "The Golden Bird," the older brothers' greed and deceit result in their downfall. Both tales caution against the destructive nature of immoral behavior and the long-term consequences it can have on individuals. Alongside that, Dorian becomes obsessed with maintaining his youthful appearance, indulging in hedonistic pleasures, holding superficial love for Sibyl Vane and only choosing to stay with her because of her beauty whereas In "The Golden Bird," the golden bird itself represents beauty and is pursued by the characters. However, the youngest son's approach differs, as he values the bird's freedom and understands the importance of respecting nature. In general, both stories explore the dangers of an unchecked pursuit of beauty and pleasure, highlighting the need for balance and ethical considerations. (One addition: The picture shown above-- The fairy, trapped within a cage, waiting for her saviour is a perfect reflection of Sibyl's situation in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray.' Due to her family being in poverty, she doesn't have a stable future. However, because she places so much trust in Dorian, she wholeheartedly believes, without a shred of doubt, that he'll come and essentially, 'save' her from the confines of her background.

-- Quote 2 analysis --

The quote "She did not listen. She was in her prison of passion" encapsulates the theme of societal constraints and the destructive power of repressed desires. This quote includes a metaphor to vividly illustrate the character's entrapment within the confines of societal norms, thereby enabling Wilde to criticise Victorian society and the limitations it imposes. The metaphor of a "prison of passion" suggests that the character, Sibyl Vane, is trapped by their intense emotions and desires-- This metaphorical prison symbolises the restrictions imposed by Victorian society, which dictated strict moral codes and suppressed any signs of passion or unconventional behaviour. By characterising passion as a prison, Wilde highlights the irony of a society that stifles human emotions and desires, ultimately leading to destructive consequences. Moreover, Wilde also critiques the societal norms of Victorian England, which placed great importance on outward appearances and conformity to prescribed roles. Furthermore, the quote also exposes the hypocrisy of a society that demanded adherence to a facade of respectability while disregarding the genuine needs and desires of individuals which suggested that the suppression of passion and the denial of one's true self can lead to emotional and psychological imprisonment. Wilde's critique extends beyond the confines of Victorian society, resonating with broader themes of human nature and the consequences of denying one's authentic desires. By masterfully manipulating this literary technique, he invites readers to reflect on the detrimental effects of societal constraints and the importance of embracing one's true self. Additionally, the quote also suggests that by confining oneself within the limitations imposed by societal norms, individuals risk their own emotional and spiritual well-being, leading to a life of inner turmoil and dissatisfaction.

'I know why the caged bird sing' -- Maya Angelou (Poem)

One possible link lies in the idea of confinement and the longing for freedom. In "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," the caged bird represents the African American community and their struggle for freedom and equality. Similarly, in "The Picture of Dorian Gray," Dorian's portrait represents his hidden sins and serves as a metaphorical cage that traps him in a life of debauchery and moral decay. Both works also touch upon the concept of self-expression and the consequences of societal expectations. Maya Angelou's poem emphasizes the importance of finding one's own voice and breaking free from societal constraints. Dorian Gray, on the other hand, becomes consumed by the pursuit of pleasure and the desire to maintain his youthful appearance, ultimately leading to his downfall. Both works explore the idea that living inauthentically and conforming to societal expectations can have detrimental effects on one's well-being. On the other hand, the element that separates Angelou's work and Wilde's work lays not in the fact that both of them illustrate some sort of character that has to experience what it's like to be within the confines of something that they can't control, but rather that whilst Angelou's poem tells of a caged bird that repeatedly beats its wings against the cage until they're bloody, all for the taste of freedom, Sibyl Vane in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' doesn't wish for freedom, but rather, wishes to stay trapped by society and the ideals that have become stereotypical because she's scared of venturing outwards and exploring what lies outside the illusion that she's been living in for her entire life.

-- Quote 3 analysis --

The quote "To be in love is to surpass oneself" showcases the theme of love as a transformative force that transcends personal limitations. This quote employs paradox to criticise the hypocritical nature of Victorian society. The paradox in this quote lies in the idea that love, typically associated with vulnerability and surrender, has the power to elevate and surpass one's self. It challenges the prevalent notion in Victorian society that love is a weakness or a distraction from individual progress and ambition. By presenting love as a means of self-transcendence, Wilde subverts societal expectations and sheds light on the transformative potential of genuine human connection. Through this literary technique, Wilde critiques the rigid societal norms of Victorian England, which often prioritised social status, reputation, and personal ambition over emotional fulfilment and authentic relationships. In a society that valued appearances and conformity, the pursuit of personal desires, particularly in matters of love, was often viewed with suspicion and condemned. By presenting love as a force that allows individuals to surpass their own limitations, Wilde challenges the hypocrisy of a society that suppresses genuine emotions and represses human connections in favour of maintaining an outwardly respectable façade. This critique extends to the constraints imposed by societal norms, which curtail personal growth and hinder individuals from embracing their true selves. Moreover, Wilde's exploration of love as a means of self-transcendence invites readers to question the suffocating nature of societal expectations and the limitations they impose on the human experience. By suggesting that love has the power to elevate and surpass one's self, he encourages a reevaluation of the values upheld by Victorian society and advocates for a more authentic and compassionate approach to human relationships.

One thematic link between the two works is the exploration of the consequences of societal expectations and the pressure to conform. In "Anna Karenina," Anna's affair challenges the rigid norms of Russian society, leading to her isolation, ostracization, and eventual tragic fate. Similarly, in "The Picture of Dorian Gray," Dorian's desire to maintain his youthful beauty and indulge in hedonistic pleasures ultimately leads to his moral corruption and decay— Both works highlight the destructive effects of living inauthentically and succumbing to societal pressures. One element that is similar between the two is drawn from the examination of the human psyche and the complexities of desire. In "Anna Karenina," Tolstoy delves into the emotional and psychological dilemmas faced by his characters, exploring their desires, passions, and inner conflicts whereas Wilde delves into the depths of Dorian's psyche, depicting his internal struggle between his conscience and his pursuit of pleasure. In addition to this, the liteary connection between these two novels is really strong in the sense that the two titular characters, Dorian and Anna, lose their sense of ethical implications as they traverse on a journey of a seemingly innocent path that includes an abundance of benefits along the way. For Anna, that's getting into an affair with an officer when she's already married to a highly ranked government official, and for Dorian, that's throwing Sibyl Vane away after he loses interest in her.

-- Quote 4 analysis --

The quote "The brightly coloured parasols danced and dipped like monstrous butterflies" employs a simile to vividly depict a scene and, in turn, communicates the dangers of anything pleasing to the eye having an element of deception. The simile in this quote compares the movements of the brightly coloured parasols to the dance and dip of monstrous butterflies. By using this simile, Wilde creates a vivid and striking visual image that captures the attention of the reader-- The parasols, associated with elegance and femininity, are transformed into monstrous butterflies, suggesting that the superficial beauty and artificiality upheld by Victorian society conceal darker and more complex realities. Through this literary technique, Wilde critiques the façade of respectability and the obsession with appearances prevalent in Victorian society. The phrase "monstrous butterflies" hints at the hidden, unsettling aspects beneath the surface of seemingly flawless individuals and their social interactions. It suggests that the pursuit of societal norms and the pressure to maintain a flawless image often result in the suppression of individuality and the masking of true emotions. Wilde's critique of societal norms is further emphasised by the contrasting imagery of "brightly coloured" parasols. These parasols, which symbolise the artificiality and superficiality of Victorian society, are juxtaposed with the monstrous butterflies, representing the hidden complexities and darker truths that lie beneath the surface. The vibrant colours of the parasols serve as a metaphor for the attractive yet shallow veneer that masks the deeper realities of human experience. Furthermore, this quote also serves as a vivid metaphor that relates to the theme of illusion versus reality. The image of the parasols, with their vibrant colors and graceful movements, suggests a world of beauty and enchantment. However, the comparison to "monstrous butterflies" introduces an element of distortion and artificiality. This juxtaposition underscores the idea that appearances can be deceptive and that what may seem captivating on the surface can conceal darker truths beneath. The quote reflects the central conflict in the novel, as Dorian Gray's external youth and beauty mask his increasingly corrupt and immoral nature, highlighting the illusory nature of his pristine facade. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder that one must look beyond superficial appearances to discern the true essence of a person or situation.

'Guests in paradise' by Manuel Mujica Láinez

One connection between the two works lies in their exploration of the corrupting influence of decadence. In both novels, we see characters who are drawn into lives of indulgence and pleasure, ultimately leading to their downfall. The characters in "Invitados en el Paraíso" engage in lavish parties, affairs, and other immoral activities, while Dorian Gray in Wilde's novel becomes consumed by the pursuit of pleasure and the preservation of his youthful appearance. Furthermore, both works offer social critiques of the upper class and aristocracy of their respective societies— ‘Invitados en el Paraíso’ sheds light on the opulent lifestyles and moral decay of the Argentine elite during the early 20th century. Similarly, ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ satirizes the superficiality and hypocrisy of Victorian society, particularly the obsession with appearances and the double standards of morality. Another thing that acts as a bridge between these two novels would be the fact that both the main parties are of high class and share common interests-- Seeking pleasure in luxuries and failing to find the genuine truth and beauty that lies within things that appear to be mundane. Mujica Láinez skillfully exposes the hypocrisy and contradictions of the upper class, highlighting their privileged existence while also critiquing their lack of genuine substance and empathy. and commenting on the erosion of values in a rapidly changing world, extremely similar to how Oscar Wilde serves the audience with a nuanced presentation of his characters. Through their satirical lens, both stories expose the emptiness and moral bankruptcy that can accompany a life of excessive wealth and superficial pursuits.

Analysis of an additional element: The references to 'cages' within the novel

Within the novel, there are recurring references and symbolism associated with cages throughout the novel. These references serve to underscore key themes and ideas, particularly related to imprisonment, constraint, and the consequences of moral corruption. The concept of cages can be seen as a metaphorical representation of the moral and psychological entrapment experienced by the characters in the story. Dorian Gray, the central character, starts off as an innocent and beautiful young man, but as he indulges in a life of hedonism and immorality, he becomes trapped within the confines of his own vices. The portrait of Dorian serves as a visual representation of his corrupted soul, acting as a cage that encapsulates his hidden sins and deteriorating morality. Throughout the narrative, Dorian's increasing corruption and moral decay are contrasted with his external appearance, which remains youthful and untouched by time. This contrast emphasizes the idea that while Dorian's physical form remains free and unblemished, his soul is imprisoned within the confines of his immoral actions and choices. The portrait becomes a symbolic cage, a visual reminder of his hidden sins and the consequences of his Faustian bargain. The motif of cages is also present in the character of Basil Hallward, the artist who paints the portrait of Dorian. Basil's love for Dorian becomes a kind of emotional cage, as he becomes captivated by Dorian's beauty and becomes trapped by his own unrequited desires. His inability to break free from his infatuation eventually leads to tragic consequences.

Artistic response 1

This is one of my artistic responses-- A digitally drawn portrait of Sibyl Vane with black wings clutching black. Withered roses in her hands, still treating them tenderly as if they're ripe and beautiful. What I aimed to communicate through this drawing was how the strong emphasis on aestheticism, the hypocrisy of Victorian society and Dorian's corrupted nature morphed Sibyl into a person that the reader couldn't recognise anymore. I purposely blurred her face out to indicate that the feature that both she and Dorian valued the most--Her beauty, had been taken away. In addition to this, black roses symbolise mourning, mystery, loss, and elegance, and specifically within a relationship, heartbreak and sadness. Additionally, the vibrant yet subtle splotches of colour around the picture can be interpreted as many different things-- From one perspective, it can appear as if there are tear stains-- I purposely created this illusion to make it appear as if, from a third person's perspective, the person who's clutching this portrait is immensely saddened by what they see in the picture. Not only this, but I also wanted to make this artistic response a direct contrast of the actual picture of Dorian Gray. The difference between the two is that whilst Dorian's picture becomes more and more grotesque, Sibyl's face and figure becomes more and more blurry as time goes by, both of which emphasise the effects of a negative force. Due to the fact that Sibyl depends on the constraints of society and praise of others to solidify who she is and what she lives for, the moment Dorian's opinion of her changes, she slowly loses her sense of what purpose she holds within society. Moreover, the black wings are there to showcase how Sibyl's purity has been tainted, due to Dorian's heartless methods of toying with her and lastly, linking back to the first point-- With Sibyl's hair and clothes adorned in black roses, and she herself holding them tightly, I wanted to showcase how angelic yet oblivious she was. Black roses are notorious for bringing bad omens, and the fact that she's still keeping them close to her suggests that no matter how despicable or cruel Dorian is, she still chooses to view him as her 'Prince Charming.'

Artistic response 2

For my second artistic response, I wrote a poem that resonated with Sibyl's forsaken journey for meaning and a deeper understanding of her own identity beyond the transient world of appearances. My poem's references to twilight, shadows, and veils of dusk create a mystical ambiance, reminiscent of the world of theatre and illusion that Sibyl Vane inhabits. The line "the shadows flicker, elusive and coy, in this realm where I find my joy" suggests a connection to Sibyl Vane's profession as an actress, where she immerses herself in the realm of shadows and illusions to bring joy and enchantment to her audience. It reflects her ability to transform herself into different characters, to embody their essence and transport others to different worlds. My poem's exploration of memories, both dim and bright, and the blending of opposites like day and night also symbolises Sibyl's internal conflict and the duality of her experiences. Furthermore, the reference to cleansing oneself and finding purity within the reverie of shadows alludes to Sibyl's desire for spiritual purification and redemption. After her tragic fate, Sibyl Vane's character undergoes a transformation, representing the consequences of pursuing superficial beauty and the loss of one's authentic self. Although Sibyl never personally made the journey of discovering who she really was without any external factors involved, I chose to write what I believed she would've done had she realised what Dorian's intent was from the start.

Contemporary link(s)

Beauty Rituals (Within tribal culture)

The Surma Tribe

In certain remote tribes or communities, such as the Surma and Mursi tribes in Ethiopia, beauty rituals involving lip plates are practiced, where individuals are judged and valued primarily based on physical appearance. This tradition entails stretching the lower lip to accommodate large decorative plates or discs, symbolizing beauty, social status, and maturity. Women who wear larger lip plates are considered more attractive and desirable. This parallels the way Dorian Gray values Sibyl Vane solely for her physical beauty and dismisses her when she no longer fits his ideal. Both examples highlight the detrimental consequences of valuing individuals solely based on their external beauty, leading to their marginalization and being cast aside as if their worth lies solely in their appearance.

The Paudang Tribe

The remarkable tradition of the neck rings worn by the Padaung tribe in Myanmar, known as the "long-necked" tribe, evokes a poignant connection to the heart-wrenching tale of Sibyl Vane in Oscar Wilde's "The Picture of Dorian Gray." The Padaung women wear these brass rings, gradually adding more over time, in a mesmerizing display of cultural beauty and identity. Similarly, Dorian Gray becomes enthralled by Sibyl Vane, an extraordinarily talented actress whose performances radiate a captivating allure. However, when Sibyl's artistic gifts falter and fail to live up to Dorian's idealized image, he heartlessly discards her, casting her aside like an abandoned artifact. Both instances reveal the tragic consequences of reducing individuals to mere objects of aesthetic pleasure, disregarding their intrinsic worth, passions, and inner depths.

Mepandes

[ Balinese culture ]

The practice of teeth filing, or "mepandes," in Balinese culture forms a poignant parallel to the heartbreaking narrative of Sibyl Vane in Oscar Wilde's "The Picture of Dorian Gray." Teeth filing is not merely a beauty ritual in Balinese tradition, but a transformative process symbolizing personal growth and shedding negative traits. Similarly, Sibyl Vane undergoes a profound transformation when her captivating beauty and extraordinary acting talent attract Dorian Gray. However, as Dorian becomes consumed by his pursuit of eternal youth and pleasure, he reduces Sibyl to a mere reflection of his own aesthetic desires, treating her as if she doesn't possess feelings like he does, as if she is but a mere experiment for him to foll around with.

'Love at first sight'

'Casablanca'

Dorian Gray's treatment of Sibyl Vane based on her beauty can be examined through the lens of the concept of "performance" in relationships. Just as Sibyl is an actress on stage, Dorian views their relationship as a performance where he expects her to continually embody the idealized image he has created of her. When Sibyl's real-life persona fails to align with Dorian's romanticized expectations, he discards her without hesitation. This highlights the inherent instability and insincerity of relationships built solely on surface-level appearances, where individuals are expected to constantly perform and conform to a certain ideal. Sibyl's tragic fate thus serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the importance of authenticity and genuine emotional connection in relationships, rather than reducing them to mere acts or performances.

'Jerry Maguire'

Dorian Gray's treatment of Sibyl Vane based on her beauty can be seen as a reflection of the destructive power of narcissism and the pursuit of perpetual youth and pleasure. Dorian, consumed by his own vanity and desire for eternal youth, sees Sibyl as a mere object of his own desire and projection. He values her solely for her external attractiveness, using her as a means to fulfill his own hedonistic desires. However, when Sibyl's performances no longer live up to his idealized fantasies, he discards her without remorse, as if she is disposable. This highlights the toxic nature of narcissism, where individuals view others as mere instruments for their own gratification, disregarding their feelings, worth, and humanity.

Beauty rituals (Within Asian culture)

Feet-binding

Feet binding, which involved tightly binding girls' feet to inhibit their growth, was considered a symbol of beauty and social status in traditional Chinese society. It was a painful and restrictive practice that physically deformed women's feet, limiting their mobility and independence just like how Sibyl Vane, an aspiring actress, becomes a victim of societal expectations and the objectification of women based on their outward appearance. However, when Sibyl fails to live up to Dorian's lofty expectations in her acting, he quickly discards her, deeming her worthless. This mirrors the fate of many women in societies that prioritize superficial beauty, where their value is contingent on meeting societal standards and fulfilling predetermined roles. In addition to this, Sibyl's tragic fate can be seen as a metaphorical representation of the consequences of reducing women to objects of desire and valuing them solely for their physical appearance. Just as feet binding resulted in physical and emotional suffering for women, Sibyl's identity and self-worth are tragically tied to her beauty, leading to her ultimate downfall. Furthermore, the parallel between feet binding and Sibyl's fate highlights the universal struggle faced by women in various cultures throughout history. It sheds light on the harmful effects of societal expectations and the objectification of women, emphasising the need to challenge and transcend such oppressive standards.

White-face

In Chinese culture, the use of white powder on the face was considered a symbol of beauty and social status. It created an illusion of flawless, porcelain-like skin and was associated with femininity, purity, and refinement. Similarly, Sibyl Vane, as an actress, portrays various characters on stage, embodying different personas and projecting illusions to captivate her audience. Her performances are marked by the artifice of theatricality, where reality is distorted or concealed to create an alluring facade. However, just as the illusion of white-powdered faces in China masks the reality of natural skin tones, Sibyl's theatrical performances serve as a means of concealing her true self. She becomes trapped within the confines of her artistic creations, using the stage as an escape from the harsh realities of her life. The dichotomy between illusion and reality is further emphasized when Sibyl's acting fails to meet Dorian Gray's idealized expectations. Overall, the connection between the practice of white-powdered faces in China and the character of Sibyl Vane in "The Picture of Dorian Gray" emphasizes the fragility of illusions and the importance of confronting reality, challenging superficial standards of beauty, and seeking authenticity amidst a world dominated by illusions.

Complete makeup transformations

In the age of social media, there is immense pressure to conform to idealised standards of beauty and present a flawless image to the world. Makeup, filters, and photo-editing tools play a significant role in this process, allowing individuals to manipulate their appearance and create an illusion of perfection. This modern-day transformation mirrors the Victorian practice of using makeup to conform to societal beauty standards. As an actress, she relies on the artifice of theatrical makeup to create a captivating illusion of beauty for her performances. Similarly, individuals on social media employ makeup and filters to craft an online persona that aligns with societal expectations, concealing their perceived flaws and presenting a highly curated version of themselves. The theme of Victorian hypocrisy arises as Sibyl's fate unfolds. Dorian Gray falls in love with the illusion of beauty that Sibyl portrays on stage, just as social media users can become enamoured with the carefully crafted images they encounter online. The link between Sibyl Vane and the modern phenomenon of online image manipulation lies in the shared theme of societal expectations and the pressures to present an idealized version of oneself. Both contexts highlight the dissonance between the constructed illusions and the reality underneath. Furthermore, the prevalence of social media's beauty standards and the use of filters and makeup underscore the enduring nature of societal hypocrisy. Both contexts demonstrate the harmful effects of perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and the need to question the authenticity and integrity behind the idealized images presented to the world.

Conclusion

In essence, Oscar Wilde's masterpiece, "The Picture of Dorian Gray," serves as a deep criticism of societal expectations, hypocrisy, and the constraints imposed by Victorian society, while promoting personal autonomy, the pursuit of aestheticism, and the recognition of the intrinsic value of art. Through metaphors, dramatic irony, similes, and paradoxes, Wilde weaves a complex and thought-provoking narrative that delves into the duality of human nature and the blurred line between illusion and reality. By exposing the corrupting influence of societal pressures and the pursuit of surface-level beauty, Wilde challenges the prevailing moral standards of his time and invites readers to question the authenticity of societal expectations. Moreover, the novel celebrates the power of art as a means of self-expression and self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of individual autonomy and the pursuit of beauty and pleasure. In this way, "The Picture of Dorian Gray" stands as a timeless work that continues to resonate, encouraging us to confront the hypocrisies of our own society, embrace our individuality, and appreciate the transformative power of art.

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