Possible Paper Topics:
The following are possible paper topics about
Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray.
Contemporary Response to The Picture of Dorian Gray
Considers the reaction of the Victorian audience to the publication of Wilde's Picture of Dorian Gray, (many of these are included in the Norton text) with specific reference to societal conventions of the time and Wilde's perspective on aestheticism as expounded in the narrative.
Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray / Theme Of Art For Art's Sake
Could Wilde's choice of subject matter and treatment creates an artistic experience unencumbered by the need to moralize over it -- in short, "art for art's sake"?
Art And Beauty In Wilde's Dorian Gray
What is the meaning of art and beauty in Oscar Wilde's novel, The Picture Of Dorian Gray
Approach to Art: Characters in The Picture of Dorian Gray
Examine the two main characters, Dorian Gray and Lord Henry, in The Picture of Dorian Gray. How are these two alike and more importantly how are they different in their approaches to art and life? How to they realize their aesthetic ideals and philosophies?
Gothic Features In The Novel: The Picture Of Dorian Gray
Examine the gothic elements in Oscar Wilde's tale, The Picture of Dorian Gray, especially emphasizing setting, characters and theme. Note: this will require a respected outside literary source's definition (not online) of what is meant by "gothic" in literature.
Analysis of Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest and The Picture of Dorian Gray
Try to compare and contrast the two works, considering their social relevance and views on the philosophical debate of determinism vs. free will. Note: This will require you to not only watch the movie but READ the play (and not only online), so you can make legitimate citations from both works.
These paper ideas
are actually based on texts you could BUY online. I hope I do not need to
tell you that doing that would be a major mistake. However,
the ideas are sound and look interesting. Make them your own by doing your
own research.
Return to Research Writing Syllabus
Return to Prof. Rearick's Office
Last Updated Feb. 20th 2004
