Thereâs been a long-standing argument in literary circles, surrounding Shakespeareâs sonnets. The works are dedicated to âMr W.H.â and academics have debated as to who this elusive figure might be. Some have even gone as far as to suggest that the initials stand for âWillian Himself.â âThe Portrait of Mr W.H.â sees Wilde give these sonnets a witty and wry autopsy, poring through them to find the identity of this shadowy dedicatee. However, this is a speculative fiction rather than an academic exercise, and Wilde creates a superb story in which a young actor might give a clue as to who Mr W.H. actually was. Ideal for fans of Shakespeare and Wilde, alike.
Oscar Wilde (1854 â 1900) was an Irish novelist, poet, playwright, and wit. He was an advocate of the Aesthetic movement, which extolled the virtues of art for the sake of art. During his career, Wilde wrote nine plays, including âThe Importance of Being Earnest,â âLady Windermereâs Fan,â and âA Woman of No Importance,â many of which are still performed today. His only novel, âThe Picture of Dorian Grayâ was adapted for the silver screen, in the film, âDorian Gray,â starring Ben Barnes and Colin Firth. In addition, Wilde wrote 43 poems, and seven essays. His life was the subject of a film, starring Stephen Fry.