Dorian Gray Chapter 12 Flashcards
Why does Basil hesitate to believe the worst rumours he has been hearing about Dorian? How does this show that Basil is an Aesthete?
Basil believes that since Dorian doesn’t ‘look guilty’, he is still ‘pure’
What is Dorian referring to when he tells Basil about the ‘diary of his life’?
To the portrait that Basil had painted of him
How old does Dorian turn in this chapter?
38
Who does Dorian see on the street, how does he respond?
He spots Basil on the street. He pretends not to notice Basil, but Basil catches up to him
Why did Basil come to Dorian’s?
He wants to bid him farewell, as he plans to leave for Paris that night and spend six months creating a new masterpiece
On what condition does Dorian invite Basil into his home?
He reluctantly invites Basil inside, provided they avoid serious conversation. Despite Dorian’s request, Basil insists they discuss a grave matter.
What does Basil discuss with Dorian, why?
The scandals linked to his name and his tarnished reputation, for while initially Basil refused to believe the rumours, the mounting evidence against Dorian was undeniable.
How does Dorian rebuke Basil and his conversation?
He asserts that it is the scandalous behaviour of his former friends that causes them to avoid him
What does Basil accuse Dorian of? What does he instead urge him to do?
Guiding those around him, such as Henry’s sister, to ruin and despair through his influence which he argues he should instead use his remarkable charm for good instead
What does Basil do with the accusation?
He enumerates them, detailing the heartbreak and ruin Dorian has inflicted upon friends and admirers
What does Basil say he wants to see, how does Dorian respond?
He states that to truly understand Dorian now, he would need to see his soul. At this, Dorian turns pale and abruptly decides to reveal his secret to Basil
What became of Victor, Dorian’s previous French servant?
He married Lady Radley’s maid and moved to Paris with her
What does Basil say about sin?
It cannot be concealed because it writes itself across a man’s face
What does Basil imply happened to Dorian’s friends?
They ruined themselves due to Dorian’s influence
How does Dorian respond to the allegations over the use of Berwick leaving whenever Dorian enters a room?
He leaves because Dorian knows everything about his life
