This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. The Picture of Dorian Gray

   

   A beautiful young man remains outwardly youthful while a painted portrait of him ages and records the moral degradation he conceals; under the corrosive influence of a cynical friend he pursues a life of pleasure and cruelty, and as his secret corruption deepens the hidden portrait becomes increasingly grotesque, leading his attempts to evade responsibility to violence and a tragic, self-destructive end — a dark meditation on vanity, influence, and conscience.

   The 89th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. The Importance of Being Earnest

   A Trivial Comedy for Serious People

   

   This comedic play revolves around two protagonists who both use the pseudonym "Ernest" to escape their social obligations. Their plans unravel when they fall in love and their betrothed women reveal they are only willing to marry men named Ernest. The situation is further complicated by a case of mistaken identity, a lost handbag, and a surprising revelation about one of the protagonist's parentage. The play uses wit and humor to satirize the social conventions of Victorian England, particularly the importance placed on trivialities.

   The 1382nd Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. The Happy Prince And Other Tales

   

   The book is a collection of poignant and imaginative fairy tales that explore themes of compassion, sacrifice, and the disparity between wealth and poverty. The stories often feature anthropomorphized characters and fantastical elements, highlighting the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the protagonists. Through rich symbolism and lyrical prose, the tales convey messages about the importance of kindness, selflessness, and the true meaning of happiness, often critiquing societal norms and the superficiality of material wealth.

   The 2522nd Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. A House Of Pomegranates

   

   The book is a collection of four fairy tales that explore themes of beauty, sacrifice, and the complexities of human nature. Each story presents a unique moral lesson through richly imaginative narratives and vivid characters, often highlighting the contrast between superficial appearances and deeper truths. The tales blend elements of fantasy and reality, offering poignant reflections on love, vanity, and the pursuit of happiness, all delivered with Wilde's signature wit and eloquence.

   The 4561st Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. De Profundis

   

   "De Profundis" is a lengthy letter written by a man during his imprisonment for gross indecency, reflecting on his past life and experiences. The letter is addressed to his former lover, and through it, he expresses his feelings of regret, despair, and hope. The man discusses his spiritual journey during incarceration, his newfound understanding of suffering, and his changing views on art and morality. The work is a profound exploration of love, forgiveness, redemption, and the human spirit's resilience.

   The 4630th Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. Plays

   The Importance of Being Earnest and Other Plays

   

   This collection of works by a renowned 19th-century playwright is a brilliant exploration of social satire, wit, and the examination of Victorian society's norms and hypocrisies. The plays within often feature sharp dialogue, complex characters, and intricate plots that challenge social mores and personal morality. Themes such as the superficial nature of social status, the conflict between true love and societal expectation, and the duality of human nature are woven throughout these comedic yet thought-provoking dramas. The author's clever use of language and paradox, along with his critique of aristocratic attitudes, ensure that the plays remain enduring favorites on the stage and continue to engage readers and audiences with their timeless relevance and humor.

   The 7216th Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. Essays Of Oscar Wilde

   

   This collection of essays showcases the sharp wit and insightful social commentary of one of the most celebrated writers of the late 19th century. The essays span a range of topics, from art and aesthetics to criticism and personal reflections, all delivered with the author's distinctive blend of eloquence and irony. The author's keen observations on Victorian society, his exploration of beauty and its relation to life, and his thoughts on the role of the artist make this compilation a treasure trove for readers interested in literature, philosophy, and the enduring complexities of human nature.

   The 7216th Greatest Book of All Time

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8. 8. The Complete Letters Of Oscar Wilde

   

   This compilation is an exhaustive collection of correspondence penned by one of the most celebrated writers of the Victorian era, known for his wit, eloquence, and flamboyant style. The letters provide an intimate glimpse into the author's life, covering his rise to fame, his relationships, his trials, and his time in prison. They reveal his personal thoughts on art, literature, society, and his own creative process. The collection is not only a treasure trove for literary enthusiasts and scholars but also a poignant, revealing portrait of a complex man who was a central figure in the aesthetic movement of the late 19th century.

   The 12656th Greatest Book of All Time

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9. 9. The Canterville Ghost

   A Hylo-Idealistic Romance

   

   In this novella, a wealthy American family moves into an old English mansion, Canterville Chase, despite warnings that it is haunted by the ghost of Sir Simon, who has been unsuccessfully trying to scare away its inhabitants for centuries. The pragmatic and unflappable Otis family, however, is unimpressed by the ghost's antics and instead treats him as a mere inconvenience, even offering him remedies for his ghostly ailments. Through humorous and satirical interactions, the story explores themes of cultural differences between Americans and the British, ultimately leading to a poignant resolution where the ghost finds redemption and peace with the help of the family's compassionate daughter, Virginia.

   The 16597th Greatest Book of All Time

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10. 10. An Ideal Husband

    

    The play is a comedic exploration of political corruption, social hypocrisy, and the complexities of human relationships. It centers around Sir Robert Chiltern, a respected politician whose career and marriage are threatened when a dark secret from his past is revealed by the cunning Mrs. Cheveley. As the plot unfolds, themes of morality, forgiveness, and the nature of an "ideal" partner are examined, with witty dialogue and satirical commentary on Victorian society. Ultimately, the characters must navigate personal dilemmas and societal expectations to find redemption and true happiness.

    The 16700th Greatest Book of All Time

11. 11. The Wit Of Oscar Wilde

    

    This book is a curated collection of Oscar Wilde's most memorable and witty remarks, drawing from his plays, essays, and personal letters. It showcases Wilde's sharp wit and unique perspective on society, art, morality, and life itself. Through his clever use of language and insightful observations, Wilde's humor and intelligence shine, making this compilation a delightful exploration of the mind of one of literature's most celebrated figures. The selection not only entertains but also offers a glimpse into the complexities and contradictions of human nature, as seen through the eyes of a master wordsmith.

    The 16893rd Greatest Book of All Time

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12. 12. The Complete Fairy Tales Of Oscar Wilde

    

    This collection brings together all of Oscar Wilde's enchanting fairy tales, showcasing his wit, moral vision, and penchant for the fantastical. Through stories that range from the whimsical to the tragic, Wilde explores themes of love, sacrifice, compassion, and the human condition. His tales, including well-known ones such as "The Happy Prince" and "The Nightingale and the Rose," are imbued with the lyrical quality and poignant insights for which Wilde is celebrated. Written with a blend of childlike wonder and profound depth, these stories appeal to both young readers and adults, offering a glimpse into Wilde's literary genius beyond his famous plays and novel.

    The 16911th Greatest Book of All Time

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13. 13. The Collected Oscar Wilde

    

    This anthology brings together the wit, charm, and profound insights of a literary genius, offering a comprehensive collection of his most celebrated works. From the biting social commentary of his plays to the enchanting tales of his short stories and the poignant reflections in his essays, this compilation captures the essence of a writer who masterfully blended humor with critique. Readers are invited into a world where the beauty of language meets the complexity of human nature, revealing timeless truths about society, love, and the pursuit of happiness.

    The 17151st Greatest Book of All Time

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