THE STYLISTIC FUNCTIONS OF METAPHOR AND IRONY IN OSCAR WILDE'S THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY

This paper explores the stylistic roles of metaphor and irony in Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray. It examines how these devices enhance the novel’s thematic depth and support character development. Metaphors are shown to reflect inner conflict and moral decay, while irony serves as a means of critique and reflection. The analysis demonstrates that both devices are essential to Wilde’s artistic style and contribute significantly to the novel’s philosophical and aesthetic impact.