Member-only story

Object of Art: A Comprehensive Analysis of Oscar Wilde's Timeless Short Story

Henry Hayes

·4.4k Followers· Follow

Published in Object Of Art Oscar Wilde

4 min read

156 View Claps

17 Respond

Save

Listen

Object of Art

by Oscar Wilde

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	426 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	16 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

An to the Masterpiece

Oscar Wilde's "Object of Art" is a captivating short story that delves into the complexities of beauty, materialism, and the true nature of art. First published in 1885, this literary gem has captivated readers for over a century, leaving an enduring mark on the world of literature.

The Plot: A Tale of Beauty and Deception

The story revolves around a wealthy and eccentric art collector named Sir Hugh Erskine, who becomes obsessed with acquiring a rare and exquisite Chinese carving known as the "Statuette of the Serpent Girl." He purchases the artifact at an auction, believing it to be the ultimate object of beauty.

But as Sir Hugh delves deeper into his fascination with the statuette, he begins to notice strange and unsettling changes. The carving seems to exert a mysterious power over him, distorting his perceptions and leading him down a path of moral decay.

The Characters: A Cast of Intriguing Individuals

Sir Hugh Erskine: An embodiment of superficiality and misguided passion, Sir Hugh is a wealthy art collector who becomes consumed by his desire for the statuette.
Mr. Dorian Gray: Sir Hugh's cynical and amoral friend, Dorian represents the dangers of hedonism and the pursuit of fleeting pleasures.
The Countess: A mysterious and enigmatic woman, the Countess is a symbol of both allure and danger, playing a pivotal role in Sir Hugh's downfall.

Themes: The Complexity of Beauty and the Perils of Materialism

Throughout the story, Wilde explores a multitude of profound themes:

The Nature of Beauty: Wilde questions the objective nature of beauty and suggests that it is often subjective and dependent on the observer's perception.
The Perils of Materialism: Sir Hugh's obsession with the statuette serves as a cautionary tale against the dangers of placing too much value on material possessions.
The Corrupting Influence of Art: Wilde explores the idea that art can have both a positive and a negative impact on individuals, depending on how it is consumed and interpreted.

Symbolism: The Serpent Girl as a Metaphor for Temptation

Wilde masterfully employs symbolism throughout "Object of Art." The statuette of the Serpent Girl becomes a central symbol, representing the seductive and corruptive nature of beauty and forbidden desire.

The serpent itself has strong biblical connotations, associated with temptation, sin, and the downfall of humanity. By using this imagery, Wilde suggests that the pursuit of beauty, if not guided by reason and morality, can lead to moral decay.

Style: Wilde's Wit and Irony

Wilde's writing is renowned for its wit, irony, and use of epigrams. In "Object of Art," he employs these literary devices to create a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Through his witty dialogue and clever observations, Wilde satirizes the characters' shallowness and exposes the hypocrisy of Victorian society.

: A Lasting Legacy in Literature

Oscar Wilde's "Object of Art" continues to resonate with readers today due to its timeless themes, vivid characters, and insightful exploration of the human condition.

This short story serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of materialism, the complexities of beauty, and the importance of seeking substance beyond superficial appearances.

Object of Art

by Oscar Wilde

4.3 out of 5