does the statement "those we meet can change us,sometimes so profoundly that we are not the same afterwards" hold true in the context of the book the picture of Dorian Gray?

Title: The Transformative Power of Relationships: An Analysis of The Picture of Dorian Gray Introduction The notion that the people we meet can change us, sometimes so profoundly that we are not the same person afterward, is a concept worthy of exploration. The novel The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde encapsulates this idea, examining the consequences of personal transformation as a result of different relationships. Central to the story is the character of Dorian Gray, a young man who is influenced by two crucial characters: Lord Henry Wotton and Basil Hallward. This essay will critically discuss the validity of the statement concerning the effects of relationships on personal change, focusing on Dorian Gray's interactions with Lord Henry and Basil. Body Basil Hallward, the painter of Dorian Gray's portrait, serves as the embodiment of the positive and moral side of humanity. His friendship with Dorian is based on admiration and artistic inspiration. Basil's influence on Dorian is initially positive, as he encourages him to embrace his beauty and youth. It is evident that Basil's presence in Dorian's life is responsible for nurturing his self-awareness and appreciation for art. In this regard, the relationship between these two characters validates the initial part of the statement, highlighting how meeting someone new can lead to personal development. However, the novel takes a darker turn with the introduction of Lord Henry Wotton, a hedonistic and manipulative character. He is intrigued by Dorian's innocence and beauty and intentionally influences him negatively. The turning point in the story is when Lord Henry presents the idea of the Faustian bargain to Dorian, which results in the supernatural aging of the portrait while Dorian remains eternally youthful. It is under Lord Henry's tutelage that Dorian adopts a hedonistic lifestyle, exploring various vices and losing his innocence. Critically examining this transformation, it is plausible to recognize that Dorian's meeting with Lord Henry profoundly changed him, making him almost unrecognizable from his original self. Lord Henry's influence not only highlights the negative consequences of his friendship but also provides a stark contrast to Basil's positive contribution. This juxtaposition reiterates the statement's importance and supports the idea that the people we meet can significantly alter our character. The relationship between Dorian and Lord Henry continues to degrade Dorian further, as he engages in various immoral acts, becoming callous and cruel. In one notable scene, Dorian brutally murders Basil, symbolizing his complete rejection of the positive influence Basil had initially represented. This pivotal moment accentuates the validity of the statement, demonstrating that a single relationship, in this case, the one with Lord Henry, can lead an individual to drastically change their behavior and moral compass. Conclusion In conclusion, The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde validates the statement that the people we meet can change us, sometimes so profoundly that we are not the same person afterward. The novel explores this concept with the central character, Dorian Gray, and his relationships with Basil Hallward and Lord Henry Wotton, which result in significant transformations in Dorian's character. Dorian's interactions with both characters highlight the complex and varied nature of relationships and their influence on personal development. While Basil's relationship embodies positive influences and the virtues of artistic expression, Lord Henry's introduction leads Dorian down a darker path of hedonism and moral decay. By examining these relationships, we can critically recognize the potential power that others hold over us and the importance of nurturing relationships that uplift and positively develop our character.