In the book "The picture of Dorian Gray"ÃÂÃÂ by Oscar Wilde I believe that the character Lord Henry Wotton had a dramatic influence over the events in the life of main character, Dorian Gray. When this book was first published it was received with public outrage and resulted in the downfall of Wilde but it has now become one of his most celebrated works.
The opening paragraph of the book introduces us to two of the pivotal characters of the book, Basil Hallward and Lord Henry Wotton. Soon Dorian Gray is introduced to the text via his portrait, which has been painted by Basil, and immediately Lord Henry is intrigued. Lord Henry then commences to ask questions about Basil's handsome sitter, but Basil realises what influence Lord Henry would have : " "ÃÂÃÂyou must introduce me now' cried Lord Henry"ÃÂæ "ÃÂÃÂDorian Gray is my dearest friend' he said. "ÃÂÃÂHe is simple and a beautiful nature'"ÃÂæDon't spoil him.
Don't try to influence him. Your influence would be bad"ÃÂæDon't take away from me the one person who gives my art whatever charm it possesses; my life as an artist depends on him' "ÃÂÃÂWhat nonsense you talk! "ÃÂàBasil sees that Lord Henry would only have a negative influence on Dorian, who has been portrayed do far a pure, good and innocent. Basil seems to be begging Lord Henry not to meet Dorian at all so that he can remain as he is, because he is so important to Basil's art and to him as a friend. It seems like Basil is desperately begging Lord Henry to stay away from Dorian and not influence him.
Despite all Basil's efforts Lord Henry insists that he meet Dorian when one of Basil"ÃÂÃÂs servants comes to tell him that Mr Gray has arrived at the house. So against the best...