De Profundis (ePub)

Oscar Wilde (1854-1900), an Irish playwright, novelist, essayist, and poet, was a brilliant luminary of the late Victorian era. Known for his biting wit, flamboyant dress, and glittering conversational skill, Wilde became one of the best-known personalities of his day. He is celebrated for his only novel, 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' (1890), a dark exploration of aestheticism and moral duplicity, as well as for plays such as 'The Importance of Being Earnest' (1895) and 'An Ideal Husband' (1895), which are still lauded for their satirical take on Victorian social mores and the superficial nature of society. 'De Profundis' (published posthumously in 1905) stands apart as a deeply personal work, a poignant letter penned during his incarceration in Reading Gaol from 1895 to 1897, following his conviction for 'gross indecency.' In it, Wilde reflects on his life, love, suffering, and spiritual growth with introspection and eloquence. His literary style combines the ornate language of the aesthetic movement with incisive social commentary and psychological insight, marking him as a pivotal figure in English literature. Despite the scandal that overshadowed his later years, Wilde's legacy endures, and his works continue to enchant readers and audiences around the world with their wit, wisdom, and beauty.