Investigating the Invariability of Oscar Wild’s Aestheticism: A comparison between “The Decay of Lying” (1889) and The Picture of Dorian Gray (1891).

Abstract

This dissertation focuses on exploring the consistency of Oscar Wilde’s Aestheticism, employing a comparative analysis between his novel The Picture of Dorian Gray (1891) and “The Decay of Lying” (1889). The latter is utilized as a philosophical measure embodying the principles of Aestheticism. The study aims to test the reliability and fidelity of Wilde’s Aestheticism or potential distortions of the philosophy throughout his literary work, and offering a comprehensive understanding of the philosophical foundation within his writing. The research is divided into two chapters; the first chapter is theoretical and delves into the fin de siècle era, highlighting significant shifts, especially in the realms of art and society as well as introducing the Aesthetic movement. It also explores prominent figures pivotal to nineteenth century Aestheticism in art and literature. A focused study on Oscar Wilde’s personal and literary journey, along with the influences shaping his Aesthetic perspectives, is presented to ultimately have an overview of the novel and the essay. As for the second chapter, it analyzes “The Decay of Lying” and The Picture of Dorian Gray hand in hand, investigating how Oscar Wilde’s artistic perspective aligns with the content of the novel. It employs a thematic and comparative approach, detecting and examining each possible detail concerning the presence, or absence, of Aesthetic elements