How does Oscar Wilde’s "The Picture of Dorian Gray" address moral themes?

Oscar Wilde’s "The Picture of Dorian Gray" effectively addresses moral themes primarily by illustrating the consequences of hedonism and vanity. The narrative centers on Dorian Gray, who becomes enamored with his own beauty and indulges in a lifestyle of excess and pleasure, guided by the influence of Lord Henry Wotton. As Dorian pursues a life steeped in aestheticism and self-indulgence without regard for moral implications, the story portrays the inevitable decline of his soul, which is reflected in the grotesque changes of his portrait.

This exploration serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing that a life devoted to superficial pleasures and the quest for eternal youth can lead to moral decay and personal destruction. The repercussions of Dorian's choices underscore Wilde's critique of a society that values appearance over substance, illustrating how unchecked vanity and hedonism can corrupt one's character and ultimately lead to tragic outcomes.