Beginning of Essay
" All art is at once surface and symbol. Those who go beneath the surface do so at their peril. Those who read the symbol do so at their peril. " During the Renaissance, Christopher Marlowe examined the human soul in his morality play, "Doctor Faustus." Over 200 ....

Middle of Essay
.... behaviors, and Basil's enthusiasm which gives symbolism to the painting. Despite being a pure and inexperienced man at first, Dorian's decadent actions during the story are prompted by the theories of Lord Henry Wotton. Lord Henry's attempt to influence Dorian is responsible for many of the wrong choices Dorian makes. Initially unadulterated by society, Dorian's views change when Lord Henry tells him that he is presently at the peak of his life. Basil Hallward recognizes Lord Henry's tendencies and tells him not to "spoil" his innocent Dorian; "Don't try to influence him. Your influence would be bad." Ignoring Basil's wishes, Lord Henry utilizes ....