Answer:
The characterization of Dorian Gray from Oscar Wilde's novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray" can be interpreted in various ways, often depending on one's perspective. Here’s how he could be viewed as both a victim and a villain:
**Victim:**
1. **Influence of Others:** Initially, Dorian is influenced by Lord Henry's hedonistic worldview, which leads him into a life of pleasure-seeking and moral decay.
2. **The Painting:** Dorian becomes a victim of his own portrait, which absorbs the consequences of his immoral actions, allowing him to maintain his youthful appearance while the painting ages and reflects his true nature.
3. **Loss of Innocence:** At the beginning of the novel, Dorian is portrayed as innocent and impressionable, making him susceptible to Lord Henry's corrupting influence.
**Villain:**
1. **Selfishness and Narcissism:** Dorian becomes increasingly self-centered, pursuing his desires without regard for the consequences to others, leading to tragic outcomes for several characters.
2. **Manipulation:** He manipulates and deceives others, such as his fiancée Sybil Vane, whose life he ruins after losing interest in her.
3. **Murder:** Dorian ultimately commits murder out of jealousy and to hide his crimes, demonstrating a complete moral downfall.
In conclusion, Dorian Gray can be seen as both a victim of circumstances and manipulation, particularly in his initial innocence and the influence of others, and as a villain due to his selfish actions and moral corruption over time. His character is complex, reflecting both sides of human nature's capacity for innocence and evil.
