It was the night before the day fixed for his coronation, and the young King was sitting alone in his beautiful chamber. His courtiers had all taken their leave of him, bowing their heads to the ground, according to the ceremonious usage of the day, and h

A collection of short stories by the famous poet, playwright and raconteur, originally published in 1891. Contains: Lord Arthur Saville's Crime The Sphinx Without a Secret The Canterville Ghost The Model Millionaire The Portrait of Mr. W. H. Introduction to Impressions Impressions of America Oscar Wilde in America

Originally published in 1891 when Wilde was at the height of his form, these brilliant essays on art, literature, criticism, and society display the flamboyant poseur's famous wit and wide learning. A leading spokesman for the English Aesthetic movement, Wilde promoted "art for art's sake" against critics who argued that art must serve a moral purpose. On every page of this collection the gifted literary stylist admirably demonstrates not only that the characteristics of art are "distinction, charm, beauty, and imaginative power," but also that criticism itself can be raised to an art form...

Dorian Gray doesn't look a day over twenty-two. Once upon a time, Dorian really was young, handsome, and charming. To preserve Dorian's charm, his friend Basil Hallward the artist painted his portrait. Soon, the picture -- and Dorian's close friendship with Basil -- On the inside, every wicked deed he commits leaves its mark -- or does it? The portrait that Basil painted hangs in a special room in Dorian's house, covered completely. Underneath the cover lies an image that has changed and aged, just as Dorian has not.

Purchase one of 1st World Librarys Classic Books and help support our free internet library of downloadable eBooks. 1st World Library-Literary Society is a non-profit educational organization. Visit us online at www.1stWorldLibrary.ORG - - HISTORICAL criticism nowhere occurs as an isolated fact in the civilisation or literature of any people. It is part of that complex working towards freedom which may be described as the revolt against authority. It is merely one facet of that speculative spirit of an innovation, which in the sphere of action produces democracy and revolution, and...

Purchase one of 1st World Library's Classic Books and help support our free internet library of downloadable eBooks. 1st World Library-Literary Society is a non-profit educational organization. Visit us online at www.1stWorldLibrary.ORG - - CYRIL (coming in through the open window from the terrace). My dear Vivian, don't coop yourself up all day in the library. It is a perfectly lovely afternoon. The air is exquisite. There is a mist upon the woods, like the purple bloom upon a plum. Let us go and lie on the grass and smoke cigarettes and enjoy Nature. VIVIAN. Enjoy Nature! I am glad to say...