Sybil Vanes Symbolic Role in The Portrait of Dorian...

Sibyl Vane’s Symbolic Role In â€Å"The Picture Of Dorian Gray†, By Oscar Wilde Sibyl Vane plays a symbolic role in The Picture of Dorian Gray; moreover, she plays a symbolic role in Dorian Gray’s life. This essay will explore how Sybil’s character initially influences Dorian in a positive way, giving him the motive to turn away from decadence but subsequently brings about his downfall. Recurring themes will be discussed such as the aesthetic and references will be given to show examples of Sybil’s symbolic role in his life. A summary will follow, giving a brief synopsis concluding the essays arguments. Wilde describes the younger Dorian Gray as a stunningly handsome young man, pure inside, untouched by corrupt influences and unaware†¦show more content†¦I don’t know which to follow.’ (p.46) Dorian discusses with Lord Henry and Basil how Sybil has changed his outlook on life, ‘[h]er trust makes me faithful, her belief makes me good. When I am with her, I regret all that you have taught me†¦. The mere to uch of Sybil’s hand makes me forget you and all your wrong, fascinating, poisonous, delightful theories.’ (p. 67) Sybil’s character represents all that Dorian has lost; youth, beauty, innocence and purity. She is unwavering in her devotion to him whereas he is easily influenced by external factors. She represents truth and purity whilst Dorian’s character represents selfishness and deceit. Through her acting roles we see Sybil’s life develops from art imitating life to life imitating art and this is manifested in her ‘tragic heroine’ status in the book. She acts the parts of tragic heroines and eventually she becomes one. On hearing of her death Dorian feels abandoned, ‘there is nothing to keep me straight. She would have done that for me.’ (p.83) After Sybil’s suicide Dorian feels that he has lost all opportunity to change his ways and has no choice but to immerse himself in an immoral life of self-indulgence and decadence. It is Sybil’s acting capabilities that draw Dorian to her initially; ‘[w]hy didn’t you tell me that the only thing worth loving is an actress?’ (p.46) When Sybil feels she can no longer perform love scenes on stage