How prepared are you for the corrupting influence of someone like Lord Henry Wotton?
- I’m immune to that kind of influence. I know my own mind.
- I might be intrigued, but I’d ultimately see through his shallowness.
- I’m a bit of a hedonist myself, so I might be susceptible!
What is your absolute favorite anecdote or story from The Picture of Dorian Gray, and why does it resonate with you?
- The story of the philanthropist – it reminds me that even good intentions can have unintended consequences.
- Sibyl Vane’s tragic end – it’s a haunting reminder of the destructive nature of love and obsession.
- I find all the anecdotes equally thought-provoking, each offering a unique perspective on life and human nature.
What happened in the past when you encountered someone with a philosophy that challenged your own?
- I listened intently, eager to expand my understanding and challenge my own beliefs.
- I engaged in lively debate, relishing the opportunity to test my own ideas against theirs.
- I politely agreed to disagree, respecting their right to their own opinion while holding firm to my own.
What makes you nervous about the idea of a portrait aging instead of you?
- It wouldn’t bother me; it would be fascinating to watch it change.
- The idea of my soul being laid bare like that is terrifying.
- I’d be curious, but also a little grossed out to see myself age so drastically.
You are at a party and meet someone as charming and persuasive as Lord Henry, what do you do?
- I’d be drawn to their wit and enjoy their company for the evening.
- I’d engage in conversation, curious about their perspective but wary of their influence.
- I’d politely excuse myself – I’m not one to be swayed easily by flattery or charm.
What is your current biggest challenge in relation to balancing personal desires with societal expectations?
- I’ve found a good balance; I pursue my passions while respecting social norms.
- It’s a constant struggle; I often feel torn between what I want and what’s expected of me.
- I don’t let societal expectations dictate my life; I live by my own rules.
How do you handle the temptation to indulge in life’s pleasures, even when you know there might be consequences?
- I indulge in moderation; life’s too short to deny myself completely!
- I try to resist, knowing that true happiness lies in self-control and balance.
- Temptation? What temptation? I’m disciplined and prioritize my long-term well-being over fleeting pleasures.
How do you feel about the idea of beauty as a form of genius, as Lord Henry suggests?
- I agree; beauty can be incredibly powerful and inspiring.
- I think true genius lies in creativity and intellect, not just physical appearance.
- Beauty is subjective, and while it can be captivating, I don’t believe it equates to genius.
If you could waive a magic wand, what would the perfect balance between indulgence and restraint look like in your life?
- I’d have the wisdom to indulge in ways that bring me joy and fulfillment without negative consequences.
- I’d possess the self-discipline to resist temptations that don’t align with my values and goals.
- My life is already perfectly balanced between enjoying the good things and staying true to myself.
What’s your favorite memory related to exploring a piece of classic literature that challenged your worldview?
- I vividly remember the first time I read [insert classic work], and how it shifted my perspective on [theme or idea].
- I recall a particularly insightful discussion about [literary work] that left me pondering its complexities long after.
- I don’t have a specific memory, but I always appreciate the opportunity to engage with thought-provoking literature.
What do you think you need in order to fully confront the darker aspects of your personality, as reflected in the picture of Dorian Gray?
- Courage, honesty, and a willingness to acknowledge my flaws.
- A supportive network of friends and family to provide guidance and perspective.
- I’m already quite self-aware and comfortable with all aspects of myself, both light and shadow.
Do you have a strong moral compass that guides your actions and decisions?
- Absolutely! My values shape everything I do.
- I strive to be ethical, but sometimes temptation or difficult circumstances test my resolve.
- I make my own rules; morality is subjective, and I don’t believe in absolute right and wrong.
How do you determine your personal growth objectives each year?
- I reflect on my values, passions, and aspirations to set meaningful goals.
- I consider areas where I want to improve and challenge myself to step outside of my comfort zone.
- I don’t set specific objectives; I prefer to embrace spontaneity and let life unfold organically.
What happens if you were to discover a hidden part of yourself that you’d rather keep hidden, like Dorian’s portrait?
- I’d confront it head-on; acknowledging our flaws is the first step to growth.
- I’d try to understand it, seeking to integrate it healthily into my sense of self.
- I’d probably try to ignore it, hoping it would just go away on its own.
What keeps you up at night about the fleeting nature of youth and beauty?
- Nothing; I embrace aging as a natural part of life.
- I worry about losing my vitality and the opportunities that come with youth.
- I’m more concerned with inner beauty and leaving a lasting legacy.
What’s your favorite aspect of engaging in philosophical discussions about life, art, and morality?
- The mental stimulation and the opportunity to expand my understanding of different perspectives.
- The connection and shared sense of wonder that comes from pondering life’s big questions.
- I prefer to focus on practical matters; philosophical debates feel a bit too abstract for my liking.
How would your friends and family describe your approach to navigating moral dilemmas and temptations?
- They’d say I’m grounded, thoughtful, and always strive to do the right thing.
- They’d describe me as a bit of a wild card; I follow my heart, but sometimes make impulsive decisions.
- They’d say I’m fiercely independent and live life on my own terms.
Tell us a little about your perspective on the pursuit of pleasure and how it shapes your life.
- I believe in enjoying life’s pleasures in moderation while prioritizing my values and responsibilities.
- I’m a firm believer that happiness lies in pursuing our passions and seeking joy in everyday moments.
- I’m quite disciplined and prioritize my goals and ambitions over short-lived gratifications.
What is the trickiest part about resisting the allure of instant gratification in today’s fast-paced world?
- The constant bombardment of messages equating happiness with material possessions and external validation.
- The fear of missing out and the pressure to keep up with the experiences and achievements of others.
- I don’t find it tricky at all; I have a clear sense of what truly matters and am not easily swayed by fleeting trends.
What do you think is missing in your quest to live a life that aligns with your values and aspirations?
- More courage to be my authentic self, even when it’s uncomfortable.
- Deeper connections with people who share my passions and inspire me to grow.
- I feel content and fulfilled; I’m living in alignment with my values and aspirations.
A close friend asks you for your honest opinion about their questionable choices. How do you respond?
- I’d express my concerns with compassion and honesty, offering support without judgment.
- I’d try to understand their perspective and offer advice if they’re open to it, but ultimately respect their choices.
- I’d be direct and tell them exactly what I think, even if it’s not what they want to hear.
What’s your favorite depiction of the struggle between good and evil in art, literature, or film?
- The epic battle between light and darkness in [book, movie, or artwork] resonates deeply with my own internal struggles.
- The nuanced portrayal of moral ambiguity in [creative work] challenges my perceptions of right and wrong.
- I’m drawn to stories that explore the complexities of human nature, rather than simplistic good vs. evil narratives.
What is your go-to book, movie, or song when you’re grappling with questions of morality and the human condition?
- [Title of book, movie, or song] always makes me think deeply about life’s complexities.
- I don’t have a specific go-to, but I’m always drawn to works that explore the depths of human experience.
In a perfect world, what would your relationship with your own mortality look like?
- I’d accept death with grace and peace, having lived a full and meaningful life.
- I’d strive to leave a positive impact on the world and be remembered for my contributions.
- I’d prefer not to dwell on such matters; I’m focused on living in the present moment.
How confident are you in your ability to resist the influence of societal pressures and stay true to your authentic self?
- I’m very confident; I have a strong sense of self and am not easily swayed by external pressures.
- I’m working on it; it’s an ongoing process of self-discovery and building my confidence.
- I don’t feel the need to resist societal pressures; I embrace conformity and find comfort in fitting in.
What aspect of The Picture of Dorian Gray makes you the most happy?
- The witty dialogue and sharp social commentary, always delivered with Wilde’s signature wit.
- The exploration of beauty, art, and the complexities of human desire.
- I don’t know if “happy” is the right word, but I find the novel’s exploration of morality and corruption utterly captivating.
Which member of the central trio (Dorian, Lord Henry, Basil) are you most drawn to and why?
- Dorian, for his beauty, charm, and complex journey of self-discovery.
- Lord Henry, for his sharp wit, unconventional views, and ability to challenge societal norms.
- Basil, for his kindness, artistic integrity, and genuine concern for Dorian’s well-being.
How often do you reflect on the potential consequences of your actions, both positive and negative?
- Regularly; I believe in considering the impact of my choices on myself and others.
- Occasionally; I try to be mindful, but sometimes I act impulsively.
- I’m not one to dwell on the past; what’s done is done.
When you think about your own mortality, what are you most concerned about?
- Leaving a positive legacy and making a meaningful contribution to the world.
- Living a life full of purpose, passion, and connection with loved ones.
- Not achieving my full potential or having any regrets.
What’s your idea of a fulfilling and meaningful life, inspired by the themes in The Picture of Dorian Gray?
- One lived authentically, embracing both joy and sorrow, and leaving a positive mark on the world.
- A life rich with experiences, connections, and a continuous pursuit of knowledge and self-discovery.
- A life of pleasure, beauty, and indulgence, free from the constraints of conventional morality.
Someone asks you, “How are you really doing, deep down, beneath the surface?” What’s the actual answer, not just “I’m good?”
- I’m feeling [honest emotion], grappling with [current challenge], but hopeful for [positive aspiration].
- Honestly, I’m still figuring things out, but I’m embracing the journey and learning as I go.
- I’m doing fantastic; I’m living my best life and wouldn’t change a thing.
What do you dream about when it comes to leaving a lasting impact on the world?
- I aspire to make a difference through my work, my relationships, or by contributing to a cause I believe in.
- I hope to inspire others to live authentically and embrace their full potential.
- I’m content with living a quiet life focused on personal fulfillment and happiness; changing the world isn’t really my thing.
What comes to mind when you think about the idea of selling your soul for eternal youth and beauty, like Dorian Gray?
- It’s a haunting reminder that true beauty comes from within and that aging is a natural, even beautiful, part of life.
- It’s a fascinating thought experiment that makes me question how far I’d go to achieve my desires.
- It’s a ridiculous notion; I wouldn’t trade my integrity or the wisdom that comes with age for anything.
What is most likely to make you feel down about the human tendency towards vanity and superficiality, as portrayed in the novel?
- It reminds me of the importance of looking beyond appearances and valuing people for their character and contributions.
- It makes me sad to think about how often we judge ourselves and others based on superficial qualities.
- I don’t let it get me down; I accept that people are complex and often driven by superficial desires.
How often do you find yourself questioning societal norms and challenging conventional ways of thinking, as Lord Henry often does?
- Frequently; I have a naturally inquisitive mind and enjoy exploring different perspectives.
- Occasionally; I’m open to new ideas, but I also respect tradition and the value of established norms.
- Rarely; I’m generally content with the status quo and don’t feel the need to rock the boat.
How well do you feel you balance the pursuit of your own happiness with consideration for the well-being of others?
- I strive for a healthy balance, prioritizing my own needs while being mindful of the impact of my actions on others.
- I’m a work in progress; I sometimes struggle to find the right balance, but I’m learning and growing.
- I’m unapologetically focused on my own happiness; I believe in putting myself first.
You have a choice: read Lord Henry’s cynical philosophy book or spend an evening discussing art and morality with Basil. Which do you choose?
- Lord Henry’s book – I’m drawn to his wit and unconventional perspectives, even if I don’t always agree with him.
- An evening with Basil – I value his integrity, his artistic insights, and his genuine concern for others.
Which of the following best describes your approach to dealing with difficult emotions like guilt, regret, or shame?
- I allow myself to feel my emotions fully, process them, and learn from them.
- I tend to suppress or avoid unpleasant emotions, preferring to focus on the positive.
- I rarely experience such negative emotions; I have a positive outlook and a clear conscience.
New information about Dorian Gray’s past comes to light, revealing a history of trauma or hardship. What is your first response?
- Compassion and understanding; everyone has their own story, and past experiences shape who we are.
- Curiosity; I’d want to understand how these events influenced his choices and shaped his character.
- I wouldn’t think much of it; everyone faces challenges, and it’s not an excuse for bad behavior.
What place, concept, idea, or topic related to the themes in The Picture of Dorian Gray do you most want to explore, learn about, or dive deep on?
- The history of aestheticism and its impact on art, literature, and culture.
- The psychology of beauty, desire, and the human fascination with youth and immortality.
- The ethics of portraiture and the artist’s responsibility to the subject and to art itself.
What causes, topics, or interests are you most passionate about, and how do those passions reflect the themes of morality and social responsibility explored in the novel?
- [Share a cause or interest you’re passionate about], and how it connects to themes of empathy, justice, or making a positive impact.
- I’m passionate about [topic or interest], and I believe it’s essential to approach all aspects of life with integrity and responsibility.
- I’m primarily focused on my own personal growth and happiness; I don’t feel a strong pull towards social causes or activism.
What is your strongest quality when it comes to resisting the temptation to compromise your values for personal gain?
- Integrity; I strive to live by my principles, even when it’s difficult.
- Empathy; I consider the impact of my choices on others and wouldn’t want to cause harm.
- Discipline; I’m able to resist temptation and delay gratification to achieve my long-term goals.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you encounter someone who seems overly concerned with their physical appearance and social status, like Dorian?
- I feel a sense of sadness, recognizing the fleeting nature of such pursuits.
- I try not to judge; everyone has their own insecurities and desires.
- I find it a bit superficial and try to steer the conversation toward more meaningful topics.
What affects you the most: the pursuit of beauty, the burden of sin, or the fear of aging?
- The burden of sin, as it weighs heavily on the conscience and can have lasting consequences.
- The fear of aging, as it represents a loss of vitality and the inevitability of death.
- The pursuit of beauty, as it can become an all-consuming obsession that distracts from more meaningful pursuits.