2012 MCAS
Grade 10 English Language Arts Composition
Topic/Idea Development - Score Point 6

This concise and insightful analysis of Oscar Wilde's novel The Picture of Dorian Gray develops the idea of an abstract villain. The introductory paragraph states that though several characters in the novel have "less than honorable intentions," their morally questionable actions are in fact motivated by the corrupting force of human nature, "something that remains intangible." The writer analyzes this villainous side of human nature as it emerges in characters' tragic flaws. For example, Sybil's blinding love for Dorian results in her loss of innocence and self worth, and ultimately, her death. Dorian's willingness to adopt the amoral, hedonistic outlook espoused by Lord Henry leads not only to the demise of others, but his own, as well: "this lifestyle causes Dorian to imprison his soul in a painting created by his friend Basil, enabling him to be unaffected by the evil things he does, but eventually isolating him from his friends, causing the murder of Basil, and ultimately, Dorian's own untimely destruction." Rich language artfully weaves details from the novel with analysis of how these details lead to the end of all that is good in each character's life. Such thoughtfully chosen details, as well as effective and subtle transitions, help the writer successfully develop a portrait of an "unusual villain" that "taints and corrupts and shows no mercy even to those who were at one time the most innocent."