Dorian Gray and Shallow Hal: Two Sides of the Same Coin

When reflecting on my overall impression of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, I am intrigued by the timeless nature of the theme so poignantly portrayed in this work. Obsession with youthfulness and physical appearance is perhaps one of the most negative traits of humanity.

Dorian Gray is described as being “wonderfully handsome, with his finely-curved scarlet lips, his frank blue eyes, his crisp gold hair” (17). The artist who painted his portrait “worshiped him” (17). Contributing to his charm was “ all the candor of youth… as well as all youth’s passionate purity” (17). It was Gray’s unfortunate obsession with his appearance that led to his downfall. Despite his charmed life, one in which he wished never to age and was granted that request, he made despicable choices and was callous in his dealings with other human beings. Metaphysically, his true nature was revealed in the decaying portrait, an artistic rendering of his likeness that captured the unattractive essence of his being. Through Dorian, Wilde illuminates the true nature of human beauty—intangible.

Individuals in contemporary society still wrestle with the illusive nature of beauty. Many are befuddled by mere physicalities, focusing on outer beauty while ignoring the development of their inner selves and failing to appreciate intangible qualities in those around them. As in Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, a modern film entitled, Shallow Hal, depicts the struggles of a young man obsessed with youth and beauty. Like Gray, Hal experiences a metaphysical transformation that allows him to see the truth. Wilde reveals the inherent ugliness of Gray’s character through the portrait, while Hal’s vision is altered, allowing him to see physical beauty only in those who possess inner beauty. As in Dorian’s portrait, callous, narcissistic people, although physically beautiful, appear to be hideous to the enlightened Hal.

Although Dorian Gray’s bitter end contrasts sharply with Hal’s promising beginning, both tales underscore the essence of true human beauty and its powerful influence in our lives.