Chapter 9 (part 1) analysis of The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Summary

In this video lesson, Mrs. Long explores Chapter Nine of 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' where Dorian's callous response to Sybil's death contrasts sharply with Basil's genuine concern. The chapter delves into the characters' reactions, Dorian's detachment from emotion, and the evolving tension between Dorian and Basil. It also hints at the portrait's mysterious changes and Dorian's fear of others discovering its secrets, setting the stage for the story's darker turn.

Takeaways

• 🕊️ The chapter is set two days after Sybil's death, showing the contrasting reactions of Basil and Henry to Dorian's situation.
• 🏃 Basil, concerned for his friend, rushes to Dorian's side after hearing about Sybil's death, while Henry remains indifferent and bored.
• 🎭 Dorian's callousness is highlighted by his attendance at the opera and lack of concern for Sybil's family, contrasting with Basil's empathy.
• 🍷 Henry dismisses the tragedy of Sybil's death, suggesting that not talking about it makes it as if it never happened, a stark contrast to Basil's genuine concern.
• 💬 Dorian and Henry's conversation about death and tragedy reveals their detached and romanticized view of Sybil's demise.
• 😔 Dorian's emotional detachment is further emphasized by his inability to repeat emotions and his swift transition to new passions and thoughts.
• 🎨 Basil notices a significant change in Dorian, from a simple, natural, and affectionate young man to someone cold and heartless.
• 🖼️ Dorian's fear of others seeing his portrait is evident, as he hides it behind a screen and threatens to end his friendship with Basil if it's viewed.
• 💔 The revelation that Sybil did not know Dorian's real name and referred to him as 'Prince Charming' adds a layer of irony and detachment to their relationship.
• 👓 Dorian blames Henry for his change in character, suggesting that Henry's influence has led him to become vain and emotionless.
• 🤝 Despite the changes in Dorian, he still wishes to maintain his friendship with Basil, recognizing Basil's moral superiority over Henry.

Q & A

What is the setting of Chapter Nine in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'?

Chapter Nine is set two days after Sybil's death.

How does Basil respond to the news of Sybil's death?

Basil is incredibly concerned for his friend Dorian and rushes to his side, showing a normal reaction of concern and empathy.

What is the contrast between Basil's and Henry's responses to Sybil's death?

Basil shows genuine concern and empathy, while Henry appears bored and dismissive, reflecting their differing attitudes towards life and death.

What does Dorian say about his feelings for Sybil after her death?

Dorian claims he suffered immensely for a short time but then the emotion passed away, showing his detachment from the tragedy.

What does Dorian mean when he says he cannot repeat an emotion?

Dorian implies that he is no longer affected by his past emotions and has moved on, suggesting a lack of empathy and emotional depth.

Why does Dorian blame Basil for his vanity?

Dorian blames Basil for teaching him to be vain by painting his portrait and making him aware of his beauty, which he believes is the only thing worth having.

What does Basil foreshadow when he says he will be punished for painting Dorian's portrait?

Basil foreshadows his own death and the tragic consequences that will arise from his creation of Dorian's portrait.

How does Dorian view his transformation after Sybil's death?

Dorian views his transformation as a natural progression, claiming to have new passions, thoughts, and ideas that make him a different person.

Why does Dorian not want Basil to see the portrait?

Dorian fears that if Basil sees the portrait, he will notice the changes that have occurred, which are a physical manifestation of Dorian's moral decay.

What is the significance of Sybil not knowing Dorian's real name?

The fact that Sybil did not know Dorian's real name means that he is not legally or morally implicated in her death, allowing him to emotionally absolve himself of any responsibility.

What does Dorian mean when he says he wants something more of Sybil than the memory of a few pathetic words and kisses?

Dorian wishes for a more tangible reminder of Sybil, indicating a desire for a physical or lasting connection to her, despite his apparent emotional detachment.

Outlines

00:00

😔 Concern and Contrast in Response to Sibyl's Death

In this segment, the video script discusses Chapter 9 of 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' which takes place the day after Sibyl Vane's death. Basil, having heard the news, is deeply concerned for his friend Dorian and rushes to his side. The chapter highlights the stark contrast between Basil's empathetic reaction and the indifference shown by Henry and Dorian. Basil's normal response to tragedy is contrasted with Dorian's coldness, especially when discussing the death of his fiancée. The conversation then shifts to the portrait, where an intriguing exchange occurs between Dorian and Basil regarding changes in the portrait. Basil's concern for Sibyl's family is evident, while Dorian's lack of empathy and his focus on avoiding his own emotions are underscored. The summary also touches on Dorian's refusal to visit Sibyl's grieving mother and his detachment from the tragedy.

05:01

😠 Dorian's Transformation and the Impact of His Vanity

This paragraph delves into Dorian's transformation and the influence of his vanity, which he blames on Basil's portrait. Dorian accuses Basil of teaching him to be vain, and Basil, in turn, expresses regret for his role in Dorian's life. The conversation reveals Dorian's detachment from his own emotions and his desire to dominate them, as influenced by Henry. Dorian's callousness is further exposed when he discusses Sibyl's death as a romantic tragedy, showing a lack of empathy and understanding of the gravity of her suicide. The summary also points out Dorian's desire to maintain his friendship with Basil, despite his changed character, and his insistence on keeping his name out of the inquest into Sibyl's death. The importance of Sibyl not knowing Dorian's real name and Dorian's fear of someone seeing the changes in his portrait are also highlighted.

10:02

📖 The Chapter's Conclusion and Anticipation for the Next Installment

The final paragraph of the script sets the stage for the next video installment by indicating that the last part of the chapter will be discussed in full. It suggests that the conclusion of Chapter 9 contains significant content that warrants a dedicated analysis, creating anticipation for the continuation of the video series. The summary leaves viewers eager to learn more about the developments in Dorian's character and the implications of the changes in his portrait.

Keywords

💡Dorian Gray

Dorian Gray is the protagonist of the novel 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde. He is a young man with exceptional beauty and becomes the subject of a painting by Basil Hallward. In the video script, Dorian's character is central to the narrative, especially his transformation after the death of Sybil Vane and his interactions with Basil and Lord Henry.

💡Sybil Vane

Sybil Vane is a character in the novel who is an actress and Dorian Gray's love interest. Her tragic death is a pivotal event in the story, affecting Dorian and those around him. In the script, her death is discussed as a catalyst for the exploration of Dorian's moral decay and emotional detachment.

💡Basil Hallward

Basil Hallward is an artist and a close friend of Dorian Gray. He painted Dorian's portrait, which becomes a significant element in the story. In the script, Basil is depicted as deeply concerned for Dorian following Sybil's death, highlighting his compassionate nature and his role as a moral counterpoint to Dorian's indifference.

💡Lord Henry

Lord Henry is a character who influences Dorian Gray's hedonistic and self-absorbed philosophy. He is known for his witty and cynical remarks. In the script, his influence is blamed by Basil for Dorian's changed behavior and detachment from his emotions.

💡Vanity

Vanity in the context of the video refers to an excessive pride in one's appearance or achievements. Dorian Gray's vanity is a central theme, as it is tied to his beauty and the portrait that captures it. Dorian's vanity is criticized by Basil, who believes it has led to Dorian's moral downfall.

💡Moral Decay

Moral decay refers to the deterioration of moral values or principles. In the script, Dorian's moral decay is evident in his reaction to Sybil's death and his increasing detachment from the consequences of his actions, which is a central theme of the novel.

💡Emotional Detachment

Emotional detachment is the state of being emotionally uninvolved or disconnected from others. Dorian Gray's emotional detachment is highlighted in the script, especially in his response to Sybil's death and his desire to dominate his emotions rather than be at their mercy.

💡Portrait

The portrait in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' is a magical painting that ages and bears the marks of Dorian's sins while he remains youthful and beautiful. In the script, the portrait is discussed as a symbol of Dorian's hidden corruption and the changes it undergoes are a point of concern for Dorian.

💡Influence

Influence in the script refers to the impact one character has on another's thoughts or actions. Both Lord Henry and Basil Hallward have significant influence on Dorian Gray, shaping his views on life, beauty, and morality.

💡Transformation

Transformation in the video script refers to the changes Dorian Gray undergoes, both in character and in relation to his portrait. His transformation is a result of his moral choices and the influence of others, and it is a key element in understanding his development throughout the story.

💡Tragedy

Tragedy, in the context of the script, refers to the sad and disastrous events that occur, particularly the death of Sybil Vane. Dorian and Lord Henry's discussion of her death as a 'romantic tragedy' highlights their disconnection from the true emotional weight of the event.

Highlights

The chapter takes place two days after Sybil's death, showing the contrasting reactions of Basil and Henry to Dorian's situation.

Basil is deeply concerned for Dorian upon hearing of Sybil's death, rushing to his side to offer support.

Henry's response to Sybil's death is indifferent and detached, highlighting the moral divergence from Basil.

Dorian's callousness is further revealed in his lack of concern for Sybil's family and his focus on superficial matters.

Basil's normal reaction to tragedy, inquiring about the family and offering assistance, is juxtaposed with Dorian's apathy.

Henry dismisses the importance of Sybil's death, suggesting a lack of emotional depth and empathy.

Dorian's transformation is discussed, with Basil noting a significant change in his character from the affectionate boy he once knew.

Basil accuses Henry of influencing Dorian's negative transformation, blaming him for Dorian's vanity and heartlessness.

Dorian's philosophy on emotions is articulated, desiring to dominate and enjoy them rather than be at their mercy.

Basil foreshadows his own punishment or downfall, hinting at the consequences of his actions and their impact on Dorian.

Dorian's desire to maintain friendship with Basil despite his changes, while also recognizing Henry's influence.

The significance of Sybil not knowing Dorian's real name, which morally and legally distances him from her death.

Dorian's aversion to the word 'inquest' and his rejection of the reality and vulgarity of the investigation into Sybil's death.

Basil's request to paint Dorian again is met with refusal, indicating a shift in their relationship and Dorian's fear of the painting's secret.

Dorian's protective reaction to the painting, using the threat of ending his friendship with Basil to prevent him from seeing it.

The chapter ends with Dorian's insistence on change and his plea for Basil to remain his friend, despite their differences.

Transcripts

and welcome to mrs long's video lesson

on the picture of dorian gray chapter

nine

so this chapter is set

the following day after so two days post

sybil's death

um and basil has heard of silva's death

and he

is incredibly concerned for his friend

um

and rushes to um to his side

and then we have the extreme contrast as

has been happening throughout the story

between basil's response to sibyl's

death and henry's response and the way

they both respond to

to dorian and then once that

conversation has

taken its course um it moves on to the

portrait

and we see a very interesting exchange

between darwin and basil in terms of

the change or something interesting that

they've noticed in the portrait

okay so

basil says to darren i called last night

and they told me you at the opera of

course

i knew it was impossible um because

you know you've just heard of the death

of your fiance you're going to marry the

school so surely you wouldn't be out

at the theater i passed a dreadful

evening half afraid that one tragedy

might be followed by another

so there is the hint there that he

thought dorian might be so overcome

with grief that he might even take his

own life

then he asks about a sibyl's mother did

you go and see the girl's mother

um they gave the address in the paper

but i was afraid of intruding upon sorry

that i could not lighten poor woman

what a state she must be in now what

we're seeing in basil is the normal

well hopefully most of us can agree

would be the normal reaction

to um hearing of the death of a young

girl

you inquire about the family surely if

dorian was engaged to the school he

would have some sort of responsibility

to visit the mother offer his

concern um and assistance in any way

possibly

of course that none of that even crossed

dorian's mind

so darwin says to basil my dear basil

how do i know

and he's sipping pale yellow wine from

beautiful venetian glass

looking bored don't talk about horrid

subjects if one doesn't talk about a

thing it's never happened

i may mention she was not the woman's

only child there is a son a charming

fellow i believe

he's a sailor or something this kind of

offhand

reference to james vane who will become

very important later on the story

and so those of us who feel a sense of

kinship to basil

would even though we may have been

horrified by dorian's reaction the

previous

chapter his callousness has become

even more apparent here

um and so he says you went to the opera

while silver vane was like dead

in some sword and love lodging you can

talk to me of other women being charming

and of patty singing

before the girl you loved has even the

quiet of a grave to sleep in

wow my man there are horrors in store

for that little white body of hers

and dorian doesn't even want to hear

about it he must not tell me about these

things what he's done is done what his

past is past

and bezel said but it was only yesterday

what has the actual lapse of time to got

to do with it it is only shallow people

who require years to get rid of an

emotion okay

we've heard before of dorian and henry's

view

specifically henry's view about shadow

people

who feel things more than superficial

people

very paradoxical

and perhaps just an easy way for dorian

to

ex you know remove himself from having

to feel

anything that he doesn't want to feel i

don't want to be at the mercy of my

emotions i want to use them enjoy them

and dominate them that's quite an

important

quote because that's what dorian does

actually do

dorian this is horrible you can imagine

basil's

absolute shock and like disbelief

something has changed you completely you

look exactly the same wonderful boy who

day to day used to come down to my

studio

to sit for his picture but you were

simple natural and affectionate

you were unspoiled now i don't know what

has come over you

talk as if you had no heart no pity in

you

it's all harry's influence i see that

and so he feels that harry it's harry's

fault that

dorian seems to be completely opposite

to the young boy he knew

i have a great deal to harry basil he

said at last

more than i owe to you you only taught

me to be vain

well dorian likes to blame his vanity

on the portrait and by default on basil

who painted the portrait

but we know it's not basil who planted

the idea in dorian that he was beautiful

and that was

the only thing worth having and basil

says

i'm punished for that or shall be

someday which is lovely foreshadowing to

his death as well

i want the daring gray i used to paint

his basil

um and then basil

laughs and says you've come too late

yesterday when i heard that sibyl van

had killed herself and basil said

killed herself is there no doubt about

that he's got an expression of horror

how fearful and he buries his face in

his hands no i said darren grey there's

nothing fearful about it

it's one of the great romantic tragedies

of the age now when you hear

dorian speak dorian and lord henry speak

about death

sibyl's death is a wonderful tragedy you

can almost see where they're coming from

but when you hear um dorian explain it

to basil

it makes you realize just how

incongruous it is to what actually

happened

her death had all the pathetic

uselessness of martyrdom it's all

it's wasted beauty but as i was saying

you must not think i have suffered

i suffered immensely then it passed away

i cannot repeat an emotion

you know he was upset for about 15

minutes

you come down to consol me that is

charming of you you found me consoled

and you're furious

you're awfully unjust but i can't

understand i'm feel fun don't worry

about me

to become the spectator of one's own

life as harry says is to escape the

suffering of life i was a school boy

when you knew me i'm a man now i have

new passions new thoughts new ideas i'm

different

but you must not like me in this i'm

changed but you must always be my friend

of course i'm ver i'm very fond of harry

but i know that you're better than he is

don't leave me basil and don't quarrel

with me i am what i am there's nothing

more to be said

so he says i'm changed i'm different

i've got new ideas but i still want to

be friends with you

he says i know that you're better than

than harry it's almost like he

he wants to keep basil around as a

convenience

perhaps deep down he knows that basil is

going to be a truer friend to him than

than harry ever could be although he

then rejects that later on

well dorian says basil at length i won't

speak to you again about this horrible

thing

i trust only your name won't be

mentioned

um and dorian hates the word inquest

there's something crude and vulgar

it's kind of it's a reality he doesn't

want to think about

they don't know my name only my

christian name she knew and i'm quite

sure she never mentioned to anybody

invariably she told them my name was

prince charming it was pretty of her i

should like to have something

more of her than the memory of a few

pathetic words and broken broken

pathetic words and kisses

now he moves on to um

the speaking of of the painting um but

before

we move on to that aspect of the chapter

let's have a look at the obviously the

incredible importance of

firstly sibil not knowing dorian's real

name so that he

he kind of becomes not just um

morally absolved of any thing to do with

her death and emotionally he absolves

himself but in the eyes of the law

or practically he doesn't have any link

to her death

and of course the name prince charming

then comes back to haunt him when

james vane finds out that that's what

he's called

um and basil asks if you can paint him

again

darren says i can never sit to you again

it's impossible

and basil of course is really startled

by this do you mean to say you don't

like what i did where is it

why have you pulled a screen in front of

it let me look at it

and of course at this point dorian

realizes more than any any other time i

think

that he is really afraid of

somebody seeing the painting and seeing

the change of the painting remember he

didn't tell

henry about it and he he obviously

doesn't want a bezel to see

so he rushes and he throws himself

between basil and the screen and says if

you try to look at it

on my word of honour i'll never speak to

you again if you touch the screen

everything is over between us

of course he knows that that's hitting

basil where it hurts because

he knows that basil um

it really values their friendship and

their connection so he's

he's using his he's playing his trump

card there by saying

um i don't want you to see it and if you

do then

that's it for us i'm going to end this

video here because

the last part of this chapter needs to

be discussed all in one

um so we will have a look at that in the

next installment