Dorian Gray Chapter 15 Flashcards
Why is Dorian not at ease during the evening at Lady Narborough’s?
He’s nervous that someone might find out that he killed Basil Hallward.
What is the significance of the Florentine cabinet? What does the diction in the description of the cabinet reveal about its contents?
Inside is an opiate, showing that to Dorian it is still as beautiful as the rest of his belongings, or it can indicate how “addicted” Dorian is to his Hedonistic lifestyle, to everything from the portrait to having to obtain the best in materialistic objects
What does Dorian decide to do this chapter?
Dorian, impeccably dressed and adorned with violets, attends a party hosted by Lady Narborough, a cunning, shrewd woman with a particular affection for Dorian.
What does Lady Narborough complain about?
her ex-husband and wishes she could have married Dorian instead, she finds her daughter and son-in-law tiresome and asks Dorian to sit by her side.
How does Dorian feel about the guests?
Surveying the room, Dorian concurs that the guests are an unattractive bunch. He feels somewhat uplifted knowing Lord Henry will be present, but during dinner, he lacks an appetite and drinks heavily.
When Henry notices Dorian’s disposition, what does Lady Naroborough think?
She states that Dorian is in love to which they all engage in lighthearted teasing and conversation about Dorian’s current love interest, Madame de Ferrol, who has had four husbands.
What does Henry say about the spouses of beautiful women?
They tend to be criminals.
According to Henry why do women remarry?
Because they despised their former husbands.
What do all 3 (Henry, Dorian, Lady Naroborough) agree on?
The world is imperfect, but Dorian labels it a dissapointment
What type of men does Henry believe only women love?
Flawed men, if they have enough defects they’ll be forgiven for everything
What does Lady Naroborough insist to do? How does Henry respond?
that Dorian should not yet be weary of life, and she pledges to find him a suitable wife for a happy marriage, but Lord Henry retorts that a happy marriage is unattainable if you love the woman.
What is the dominant topic amongst the other guests?
Politics, specifically matters related to the House of Commons
What does Lady Narborough wish Henry did more often?
visit more frequently to entertain her, promising improved guest lists.
What does Henry say about the Duchess of Monmouth?
She is an exceptional woman, but she’s trapped in an unhappy marriage to which Dorian responds they will encounter her again at an upcoming party he is hosting.
What final topic do Dorian and Henry discuss? How does Dorian react?
Dorian’s early departure the night before, to which he reacts nervously to the question apologizing for his uneasiness, he decides to head home immediately.
