AP English Language Period 5

Friday, January 25, 2008

Fishbowl Discussion topics for Chapters 3-7 of Dorian Gray

Leaders of our first Dorian fishbowl: Please post discussion topics here.

posted by mferrill at 12:07 PM

1 Comments:

  • Here are Natalie and Christine's comments/questions/ideas for the fishbowl tomorrow:

    How has Lord Henry developed? Is he weak or satanic at this point? Consider when he says, "There was something terribly enthralling in the exercise of influence" (37) when talking about Dorian's past, or "He would make that wonderful spirit his own" (38).

    1. Is Man rational? Quote on the bottom of page 29

    2. Going back to the gothic topic we discussed on Friday, re-read the quote about sin at
    the bottom of page 30. What is Wilde’s perspective on religion? Could this quote argue
    that Lord Harry does represent a satanic figure? Why or why not? What other textual
    evidence can you provide to support your answer?

    3. There is a definite theme of domination as Dorian and Harry dominate Basil
    begins to take control of Dorian. Is Harry aware of this need/desire to dominate Dorian or
    is it a subconscious desire? Will this theme of domination continue throughout the novel
    and what is Wilde's purpose in blatantly writing about this theme in the Victorian Age?

    4. What is the significance of the picture changing at the end of chapter 7? Is someone
    altering the picture or is it just a mental alteration? Which is the real Dorian Gray?
    What makes him the real Dorian Gray?

    What is Wilde's purpose in giving Dorian's lover that last name Vane, which is similar to vain? Also, instead of being vain she seems extremely childlike, as noted on p 53. How does her brother's confidence contrast with her reserved attitude? see page 67 and his insistence to kill Dorian should he ever harm Sibyl.

    What was Wilde's view of women? Note quote on p. 47, "Women are a decorative sex. They never have anything to say, but they say it charmingly." Does Lord Henry in fact represent a part of Wilde himself?

    By Blogger Christine B, at January 28, 2008 4:59 PM  

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