The Picture of Dorian Gray · Chapter
Chapter IX explained
Dorian Gray successfully deflects Basil Hallward's desire to see the portrait, extracting a confession of idolatry from the painter while concealing his own secret.
What happens
Dorian Gray successfully deflects Basil Hallward's desire to see the portrait, extracting a confession of idolatry from the painter while concealing his own secret. He insists the portrait must never be exhibited and hides it behind a screen, revealing his terror at the possibility of exposure.
Themes in this chapter
Art and Reality
Basil argues art conceals the artist, while Dorian's secret reveals the portrait's literal embodiment of reality.
Vanity and the Double Life
Dorian maintains a facade of innocence while hiding the corrupted portrait, living a double life.
Influence and Corruption
Dorian's manipulation of Basil and his fear of exposure highlight the corrupting influence of his secret.
Characters to notice
- Dorian Gray
Manipulates Basil into confessing his idolatry, then forbids him from ever seeing the portrait again, hiding it behind a screen.
- Basil Hallward
Confesses his deep admiration and idolatry for Dorian, is denied access to his own painting, and is shocked by Dorian's vehement reaction.
- Lord Henry Wotton
Mentioned by Dorian as a dangerous but charming influence; Dorian says he would not go to Harry in trouble.
- Sibyl Vane
Dorian requests a drawing of her from Basil, recalling her as 'Prince Charming' and noting her suicide is under inquest.
Key passages
“There is something fatal about a portrait. It has a life of its own.”
Dorian tells Basil that a portrait carries a dangerous, independent existence.
Dorian hints at the supernatural nature of his own portrait.
“Art is always more abstract than we fancy. Form and colour tell us of form and colour—that is all.”
Basil claims art reveals only its surface elements, not the artist's inner feelings.
Basil rationalizes his earlier confession, asserting artistic detachment.
“I can never sit to you again, Basil. It is impossible!”
Dorian refuses to pose for Basil again, citing an unexplained impossibility.
Dorian's refusal stems from his fear of the portrait's power.