The novel opens in the studio of Basil Hallward, an artist who is captivated by the beauty of his young muse, Dorian Gray. Basil paints an exquisite portrait of Dorian and expresses his belief that the young man’s beauty is his greatest gift. During a visit, Basil’s friend Lord Henry Wotton meets Dorian and influences him with hedonistic philosophies, emphasizing that beauty and pleasure are the only things that matter in life. Dorian, realizing that his youth will eventually fade, makes a wish that the portrait would age instead of him, allowing him to remain young forever.

As Dorian falls deeper under Lord Henry’s influence, he begins to pursue a life of indulgence and selfish pleasure. He falls in love with Sibyl Vane, a talented actress, but when she performs poorly due to her overwhelming love for him, he cruelly rejects her. Heartbroken, Sibyl takes her own life. Initially disturbed, Dorian notices that his portrait has developed a cruel expression while he himself remains unchanged. Seeing this as a sign that his wish has come true, he embraces a life of sin without fear of consequences.

Over the years, Dorian indulges in every vice imaginable, his reputation whispered about in London’s high society. He keeps the portrait hidden in his attic, watching it transform into a grotesque reflection of his corrupted soul. Basil, disturbed by rumors of Dorian’s debauchery, confronts him about his moral decline. In response, Dorian reveals the horrifying portrait and, in a fit of rage, murders Basil. He blackmails an old acquaintance, Alan Campbell, into disposing of the body, further cementing his descent into darkness.

Haunted by guilt, Dorian attempts to escape his past by seeking redemption. However, he soon realizes he cannot undo the sins he has committed. He is confronted by Sibyl Vane’s brother, James, who seeks revenge for his sister’s death. Though James initially fails to kill Dorian, he later dies in a hunting accident, further convincing Dorian that he is untouchable.

Desperate to rid himself of his guilt, Dorian decides to destroy the portrait, believing it to be the root of his misery. He plunges a knife into the canvas, only to be found dead moments later—his body aged and withered, while the portrait is restored to its original beauty.

The Picture of Dorian Gray remains a powerful exploration of vanity, morality, and the dangers of unchecked hedonism. Wilde’s novel continues to be studied for its sharp wit, philosophical depth, and critique of societal values.