In the summer of 1870, Basil Hallward, an artist, is finishing the picture of his friend, Dorian Gray. Dorian is young, handsome and innocent, and he is delighted with his beautiful portrait. But when he meets cynical Lord Henry Wotton, his life changes. Under Lord Henry's influence, Dorian's life becomes more and more decadent, and his beautiful picture reflects what is happening to him. This is one of Oscar Wilde's most popular books.