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Symbolism In The Picture Of Dorian Gray

1060 Words5 Pages

London is a commonly utilized backdrop for novels, plays and films. The monuments make for stunning backgrounds in modern cinematography while the history and character of the city add meaning and symbolism to a number of works and the works, in turn, contribute to the reputation of London. In Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, Dorian is a beautiful young man with an increasingly corrupted soul as he is seduced by the city. The story of his decay takes place in two famous parts of London - the West End, known for its wealth and opulence and the East End, better known for its poverty and opium. The two sides of the city mirror the two sides of Dorian himself. When the story begins, Dorian is depicted as a gentleman, innocent and philanthropic, living in the West End. He is striking and seemingly perfect both in appearance and personality as he is depicted by his friend, Basil. The West End is meant to symbolize wealth, beauty, and classic style, to reflect the initial image of Dorian. The West End theaters are the cushy ones with velvet seats and golden embellishments, like the Criterion, and big productions, essentially the British equivalent to the American Broadway. Its shopping district - encompassing Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, and more - is massive and home to some of the pricier brands, including John Lewis and Zara. Leicester Square, also located in the West End, is the place to be for movie premiers in London. Hotels in the West End are known

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