The Picture of Dorian Gray – Essay
Writing Guide
This guide is designed to help students write strong literature essays on The Picture of
Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde. It explains how to structure an essay, what matric markers
look for, useful writing tips, and includes a full example essay.
1. Essay Tips for The Picture of Dorian Gray
Always answer the essay topic directly. Do not retell the story without linking it to the
question.
Use clear paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on ONE main point.
Include quotations or references from the novel where possible.
Explain how characters, themes, and events connect to the essay topic.
Use formal language. Avoid slang or texting language.
Do not simply summarize chapters. Analyse the meaning behind events.
Always mention the effect of Lord Henry’s influence on Dorian.
Link your conclusion back to the topic statement.
Use connecting words like ‘therefore’, ‘however’, ‘furthermore’, and ‘as a result’.
Show understanding of themes such as beauty, corruption, morality, guilt, and
influence.
2. What Matric Markers Are Looking For
Matric markers are not only checking if you know the story. They are mainly looking for:
• Understanding of the topic – Did you answer the question properly?
• Knowledge of the novel – Do you understand the important events, themes, and
characters?
• Analysis – Can you explain WHY events are important and what they reveal?
, • Structure – Does your essay have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion?
• Evidence – Did you use examples from the novel to support your points?
• Language – Is your grammar clear and formal?
• Depth – Did you move beyond basic summary and explain deeper meanings?
A strong essay does not just tell the story. It explains how and why events matter.
3. How to Structure Your Essay
A. Introduction
Your introduction should:
• Introduce the novel and author
• Mention the main theme or topic of the essay
• Clearly answer the essay question
• Give a short overview of what your essay will discuss
A good introduction is usually 4–6 sentences long.
Example Introduction Starter
In The Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde explores the dangers of vanity, corruption,
and negative influence. Through the character of Dorian Gray, Wilde shows how the
obsession with beauty and pleasure can destroy a person’s morality. Lord Henry’s
influence causes Dorian to become selfish and cruel, while the portrait reflects the
damage done to his soul. Therefore, the novel warns readers about the consequences
of living without morals or responsibility.
B. Body Paragraphs
Each body paragraph should contain:
Writing Guide
This guide is designed to help students write strong literature essays on The Picture of
Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde. It explains how to structure an essay, what matric markers
look for, useful writing tips, and includes a full example essay.
1. Essay Tips for The Picture of Dorian Gray
Always answer the essay topic directly. Do not retell the story without linking it to the
question.
Use clear paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on ONE main point.
Include quotations or references from the novel where possible.
Explain how characters, themes, and events connect to the essay topic.
Use formal language. Avoid slang or texting language.
Do not simply summarize chapters. Analyse the meaning behind events.
Always mention the effect of Lord Henry’s influence on Dorian.
Link your conclusion back to the topic statement.
Use connecting words like ‘therefore’, ‘however’, ‘furthermore’, and ‘as a result’.
Show understanding of themes such as beauty, corruption, morality, guilt, and
influence.
2. What Matric Markers Are Looking For
Matric markers are not only checking if you know the story. They are mainly looking for:
• Understanding of the topic – Did you answer the question properly?
• Knowledge of the novel – Do you understand the important events, themes, and
characters?
• Analysis – Can you explain WHY events are important and what they reveal?
, • Structure – Does your essay have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion?
• Evidence – Did you use examples from the novel to support your points?
• Language – Is your grammar clear and formal?
• Depth – Did you move beyond basic summary and explain deeper meanings?
A strong essay does not just tell the story. It explains how and why events matter.
3. How to Structure Your Essay
A. Introduction
Your introduction should:
• Introduce the novel and author
• Mention the main theme or topic of the essay
• Clearly answer the essay question
• Give a short overview of what your essay will discuss
A good introduction is usually 4–6 sentences long.
Example Introduction Starter
In The Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde explores the dangers of vanity, corruption,
and negative influence. Through the character of Dorian Gray, Wilde shows how the
obsession with beauty and pleasure can destroy a person’s morality. Lord Henry’s
influence causes Dorian to become selfish and cruel, while the portrait reflects the
damage done to his soul. Therefore, the novel warns readers about the consequences
of living without morals or responsibility.
B. Body Paragraphs
Each body paragraph should contain:
