Дориан Грей 1. "Who we are is because of our past, of what has happened to us and of what has not." Do you agree with this statement? What does this mean? 2. Lord Henry brought…

1. The statement "Who we are is because of our past, of what has happened to us and of what has not" suggests that our identity and character are shaped by our experiences, both positive and negative, as well as by the opportunities or challenges we have encountered. It implies that our past influences our present selves and decisions. Personally, I agree with this statement as our past experiences, both pleasant and difficult, play a significant role in shaping our perspectives, values, and behaviors.

2. In Chapter 3 of "The Picture of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde, Lord Henry's influence over Dorian is notable. Lord Henry's 'plan' and Dorian's feelings for him can be found in the following sentences:

• Lord Henry's 'plan': "He was amazed at the sudden impression that his words had produced, and, remembering a book that he had read when he was sixteen, a book which had revealed to him much that he had not known before, he wondered whether Dorian Gray was passing through a similar experience. He had merely shot an arrow into the air. Had it hit the mark? How fascinating the lad was!"
• Dorian's feelings for Lord Henry: "He knew that he had come face to face with someone whose mere personality was so fascinating that, if he allowed it to do so, it would absorb his whole nature, his whole soul, his very art itself. He did not want to be domineered over. Besides, it was only the constantly varying nature of his symptoms that had given him his name of the ‘the modern Hamlet of psychological drama.’"

These passages reflect Lord Henry's manipulative nature and Dorian's deep fascination and susceptibility to his influence. It portrays the complex dynamics between the two characters and the power dynamics at play in their relationship.

3. The attitude of Englishmen towards Americans in "The Picture of Dorian Gray" can be interpreted as somewhat condescending or dismissive, displaying a sense of superiority. This attitude can be seen as reflecting the societal norms and prejudices of the time, with a hint of arrogance and ethnocentrism. While it may not be the backbone of the English nation, it does shed light on the cultural perceptions and biases prevalent during that era. It is essential to critically analyze such portrayals and consider the context in which they are presented, keeping in mind the historical and social dynamics of the time.