Dorian Grey in Penny Dreadful: A Mysterious Story Unfolded

When it comes to Gothic literature, Penny Dreadful is a series that deserves to be acknowledged. The show has a myriad of well-crafted characters and nail-biting plot twists that never cease to deliver. However, one character in particular, Dorian Grey, stands out for his enigmatic charm and ominous presence.

History of Dorian Grey

Dorian Grey’s past is shrouded in secrecy. We first meet him in Season 1, Episode 2, “Séance,” where he’s introduced as a wealthy and mysterious figure who’s smitten with the protagonist, Vanessa Ives. Throughout the series, we discover more about his history through flashbacks and conversations with other characters.

Dorian Grey’s character is based on the titular character from the novel, The Picture of Dorian Grey, by Oscar Wilde. In the book, Dorian Gray is a wealthy and attractive young man who becomes obsessed with his own beauty and youth. He makes a pact with a portrait painter, Basil Hallward, to have his beauty immortalized in a portrait while he remains forever young. The portrait ages and withers as Dorian remains young and beautiful, leading him down a path of corruption and destruction.

The show takes some liberties with the character, but stays true to his core. We learn that Dorian is eternal and has been alive for centuries. He’s had many lovers and has a fondness for pleasure and debauchery. He’s also been involved in the occult and has a chamber full of items related to dark magic.

Personality and Connections

Dorian Grey’s personality is intricate and multi-faceted. He’s charming, charismatic, and knows how to seduce both males and females. He’s also self-seeking, manipulative, and has a dark side that’s hinted at throughout the series.

One of Dorian’s most notable relationships is with Vanessa Ives. They share a profound connectivity that goes beyond physical attraction. Vanessa sees through Dorian’s act and recognizes the darkness within him. Dorian, in turn, is intrigued by Vanessa’s resilience and inner turmoil. Their relationship is one of the most intriguing and complex aspects of the series.

Dorian also has a relationship with Lily Frankenstein, who is created by Victor Frankenstein and becomes a vigorous and vengeful force. Dorian is drawn to Lily’s strength and anger, and they form a bond based on their shared desire for power and control.

Impact on the Series

Dorian Grey’s persona has a significant impact on the series. He brings an element of danger and unpredictability to the mix, and his presence always raises the stakes. His relationships with Vanessa and Lily add depth and complexity to the narrative, and his character arc is one of the most interesting to follow.

Dorian’s immortality and involvement in the occult also add a supernatural element to the series. His chamber full of dark magic items and his involvement in seances and rituals create an eerie and ominous atmosphere that’s a hallmark of Gothic literature.

Conclusion

Dorian Grey in Penny Dreadful is a captivating and complex character that leaves a lasting impression on the spectator. His history, personality, and connections are intriguing and thought-provoking, and his impact on the series is undeniable. Whether you love him or hate him, there’s no denying that Dorian Grey is an integral part of the Penny Dreadful universe.

FAQs:

1. What’s the significance of Dorian’s portrait in The Picture of Dorian Grey?

The portrait serves as a metaphor for Dorian’s soul. The painting ages and withers as Dorian remains young and beautiful, symbolizing the corruption of his soul.

2. Is Dorian Grey a vampire?

No, Dorian is not a vampire. He’s immortal, but his immortality is never explained in detail.

3. What’s the deal with Dorian’s chamber full of dark magic items?

It’s revealed that Dorian has been involved in the occult for centuries. His chamber is full of items related to dark magic and is used for seances and rituals.

4. What’s the significance of Dorian’s relationship with Vanessa Ives?

Dorian and Vanessa share a deep connection that’s based on their mutual understanding of each other’s inner turmoil. Their relationship adds depth and complexity to the series.

5. What’s the impact of Dorian’s persona on the overall series?

Dorian brings an element of danger and unpredictability to the series, and his involvement in the occult adds a supernatural element. His character arc is one of the most interesting to follow, and his relationships with Vanessa and Lily are intriguing and complex.