George Bernard Shaw's play, Pygmalion, transcends its author's didactic intents, offering a vibrant and humorous exploration of class and identity. Though rooted in Shaw's advocacy for phonetic reform, the play is celebrated for its compelling narrative and memorable characters, rather than for its proposed social reforms. As a modern adaptation of the Pygmalion myth, the play deftly challenges societal norms through its witty dialogue and intricate character development.

The Transformation of Eliza Doolittle

In Shaw's Pygmalion, the mythological sculptor Pygmalion is reimagined as Henry Higgins, a teacher of English speech, while Galatea is represented by Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl. Higgins undertakes the task of transforming Eliza into a lady by teaching her to speak with an upper-class accent. However, this change leaves her stranded between two worlds; she no longer belongs to her former social class but isn't fully accepted into the new one. Eliza's journey from a proud, streetwise girl to a lady highlights her resilience and courage as she grapples with her new identity.

Character Dynamics and Social Commentary

The contrasting dynamics between Henry Higgins and Colonel Pickering, who finances Eliza's transformation, underscore the play's social commentary. While both men share a passion for phonetics, Pickering's gentlemanly demeanor and empathy for Eliza highlight Higgins's dismissive arrogance. Higgins's belief in his self-sufficiency crumbles when Eliza becomes indispensable to him, resulting in an unusual proposal for them to live as "three dedicated bachelors." Despite Shaw's insistence on a non-romantic ending, audiences and producers have often favored a romantic conclusion, much to Shaw’s chagrin.

Alfred Doolittle’s Unintended Transformation

Another notable transformation in the play is that of Eliza’s father, Alfred Doolittle. Initially a staunch opponent of middle-class morality, Doolittle becomes an unwitting victim of it when an American millionaire bequeaths him a substantial allowance on the condition he lectures on morality. This elevation into high society provides Shaw an avenue to critique economic and social structures, using Doolittle’s humorous rise to highlight the absurdities of class mobility.

Reception and Legacy

Pygmalion was a success upon its English production at His Majesty's Theatre, although reviews were mixed, often reflecting a bias against Shaw's unconventional approach to drama. Critics struggled to pin down the play's "foundation idea," leading to varying interpretations. Shaw’s use of the word "bloody" became a sensation, overshadowing other aspects of the play. Over time, however, the shock diminished, and the play’s value as a dramatic work was more widely acknowledged. Eric Bentley praised Pygmalion for its "elegant structure" and its ability to captivate audiences without relying on a singular theme.

Adaptations and Continued Influence

The play's adaptation into the musical My Fair Lady and its subsequent film version further cemented its status in popular culture, though they often diverged from Shaw's original intentions. Shaw’s reluctance to allow a romantic ending was frequently overridden in adaptations, highlighting the tension between artistic intent and audience expectations. Despite these alterations, Pygmalion remains a celebrated work for its incisive wit and enduring exploration of identity and class.