A Deconstructive Analysis of the Protagonist in Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray

Abstract

Among different researches, it is observed that the protagonist of the novel The Picture of Dorian Gray, is depicted as an antagonist, or a hero that turned into a villain. This study aims to visualize the protagonist through diverse lenses. The purpose of this study is to closely understand the text, and shed light upon the psychological progression, the tragic flaw, and the understanding of different elements that stimulate Gray’s growth. The study keenly views the text, and generates suppositions; it highlights the aspects of the novel that are undiscussed formerly, and forms an empathetic, and unbiased analysis of Dorian Gray. The study aims to contextualize the pivotal effect of the portrait, and other characters, on the personality of Dorian Gray. Derrida’s theoretical framework of deconstruction is used in this study in order to dissect, and remodel Dorian Gray’s character. This dissection, and remodeling is achieved by generating suppositions, and evaluating prospects. Overall, the study accomplishes the deconstructive analysis in order to reinvent, and empathetically unravel Dorian Gray’s probable personality.