The Picture of Dorian Gray #7

Dorian’s encounter with Sibyl’s brother James seems to cement his place in the novel as an evil and unremorseful character. When confronted by James outside of the opium den, Dorian is not so much fixated on resolving his sins and actions that James requests of him; instead, he searches for a route to escape the situation he is currently placed in. Even when in the face of realizing his mistakes, Dorian decides not cower to James and the expectations of society, claiming that he “never knew [Sibyl]” (140). Dorian, at this point in the novel, feels no remorse for the death of Sibyl, which happened eighteen years ago, and uses this fact to his advantage to escape having to confess his sins to James. In context of the novel, it can be inferred that James is placed at this moment to resemble the final breakdown of Dorian Gray, even though it does not explicitly occur in these chapters. This passage makes it clear to the audience that Dorian is a completely altered and evil character, if it was not already expressed beforehand. As Dorian’s visit to the opium den is to engage in more sinful activity, he cannot will himself to apologize or recognize the acts of evil he has committed, even when this murderer is in the face of murder. Shortly after Dorian successfully escapes the murderous grasp of James Vane, James is later told of the fact that Dorian seemingly “sold himself to the devil [in return for] a pretty face” (141). Even the public understands Dorian’s guilt and evil, but it is Dorian who does not wish to address these issues. He would rather quickly avoid them at all costs for his own benefit and livelihood. It is this flaw that seems to be the underlying factor behind Dorian’s dwindling character and personality. Perhaps it is also this flaw, though he refuses to accept it, which influences his decision to murder Basil, corrupt other members of society, or even refer to Lord Henry as a dear friend and mentor.