Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde was an Irish playwright, poet and author of numerous short stories and one novel. Known for his biting wit, and a plentitude of aphorisms, he became one of the most successful playwrights of the late Victorian era in London, and one of the greatest celebrities of his day. Several of his plays continue to be widely performed, especially The Importance of Being Earnest.

As the result of a widely covered series of trials, Wilde suffered a dramatic downfall and was imprisoned for two years hard labour after being convicted of "gross indecency" with other men. After Wilde was released from prison he set sail for Dieppe by the night ferry. He never returned to Ireland or Britain, and died in poverty.

Artist Basil Hallward has sent a gift. A portrait that perfectly captures young Dorian Gray's handsome features. When Lord Henry tempts Dorian with a new lifestyle of hedonism and pleasure, he realizes that he would sell his soul for an eternity of debauchery. Oscar Wilde's only published novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray is a dark and sinful story of excess and vice. Explore Wilde's lavish world of Gothic fiction, and his study of lost innocence, full of captivating characters with this gorgeous edition. Complete and unabridged, The Portrait of Dorian Gray is an essential collectible that is both elegant and portable.