The Role of the Servants: Witnesses to the Secret

The servants (Victor, Francis, Mrs. Leaf) are peripheral figures who sense Dorian's secret and represent the hidden domestic dimension.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Victor's Suspicion

Victor's Suspicion The French Valet Victor, Dorian's French servant, is described as 'sly' with 'treacherous eyes.' Dorian is suspicious of him. He fears Victor might try to see the portrait. The Unspoken Knowledge Servants often know more than they reveal. Victor's presence is a constant reminder that Dorian's secret is not completely safe. The domestic staff are potential witnesses.

Francis's Ignorance

Francis's Ignorance The New Valet After Victor leaves, Francis becomes Dorian's valet. He is less suspicious, but Dorian still uses him to fetch the chemicals and to create alibis. Francis is a tool of Dorian's deception. The Manipulation of Servants Dorian gives Francis a false errand to Richmond while Campbell disposes of the body. The servant is an unwitting accomplice. His role highlights the manipulation of those around Dorian.

Mrs. Leaf's Loyalty

Mrs. Leaf's Loyalty The Old Housekeeper Mrs. Leaf is a dear old lady who has known Dorian since he was a baby. She is trusting and unsuspecting. She gives him the key to the schoolroom without question. The Contrast Mrs. Leaf's innocence contrasts with Dorian's corruption. She represents the normal, moral world that Dorian has abandoned. Her loyalty is misplaced.

The Servants After the Death

The Servants After the Death The Discovery When the servants break into the locked room, they find the portrait and the dead man. They are terrified and confused. They are the first to witness the final mystery. The Uncomprehending Witnesses The servants do not understand what has happened. They see the restored portrait and the withered corpse. They are left with a puzzle. Their role is to be the eyes of the world on the final scene.

After the portrait is hidden, Chapter VIII

After the murder, Chapter XII

When Dorian asks for the key, Chapter VIII

The night of Dorian's death, Chapter XIII