Pygmalion: 1941 version with variants from the 1916 edition

Professor Henry Higgins bets with Colonel Pickering that he can teach a flower seller to speak like a duchess, but Eliza Doolittle has her own mind and aspirations. Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw questions the class system, social appearances, and the role of women in society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2021
Publisher: Alma Books Ltd

Professor Henry Higgins, a renowned phonetics expert, engages in a daring wager with Colonel Pickering, challenging him to transform a lowly flower seller into a refined and eloquent speaker akin to a duchess. Little does Higgins anticipate the myriad complexities that lie ahead in his social experiment, nor does he realize the profound intellect and aspirations hidden beneath the cockney vernacular of the young woman he has chosen to educate, Eliza Doolittle. As the experiment unfolds, Eliza's innate intelligence and determination emerge, defying the expectations of her creator. However, the creature's growing rebellion against Higgins sets the stage for a captivating play that delves into profound societal issues.

Pygmalion, widely celebrated as Shaw's masterpiece, is presented in its definitive 1941 version, accompanied by footnotes that highlight the textual variations from the original 1916 volume edition. This timeless masterpiece has inspired numerous adaptations, including the iconic 1956 Broadway musical My Fair Lady. Moreover, it serves as a testament to the enduring power of ancient myths to find new expressions in contemporary life.

Eliza Doolittle, the central character in the play, emerges as a captivating and complex figure. Born into a life of poverty and social stigma, she possesses a remarkable intellect and a fierce determination to overcome her circumstances. Through her interactions with Higgins, she learns the art of speech and etiquette, gradually shedding her cockney accent and embracing a more refined manner of speaking. However, it is her inner strength and self-awareness that truly define her character.

Eliza's transformation is not merely a superficial one; it reflects her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. She challenges the rigid class system that perpetuates social inequality and exposes the hollowness of superficial appearances. She defies the expectations of those around her, proving that intelligence and character are more valuable than societal labels.

Pygmalion's exploration of the role of women in society is particularly poignant. Eliza's journey from a lowly flower seller to a refined lady serves as a testament to the potential of women to achieve greatness and break free from the constraints of traditional gender roles. She demonstrates that women can be independent thinkers, capable of achieving their aspirations and making meaningful contributions to society.

The play also raises important questions about the nature of education and the impact it can have on individuals. Higgins, driven by his belief in the power of language to transform lives, takes Eliza under his wing, imparting his knowledge and skills to help her achieve her goals. However, his approach is often dismissive of her intelligence and individuality, treating her as a mere object to be molded.

Eliza, on the other hand, resists being treated as a mere puppet and fights for her own voice and identity. She challenges Higgins's assumptions and demands respect and recognition for her abilities. Through her determination and resilience, she proves that education should be tailored to the individual's needs and aspirations, rather than being a one-size-fits-all approach.

The ending of Pygmalion is a testament to the power of transformation and the potential for individuals to change their lives. Eliza's transformation from a guttersnipe to a refined lady is not merely a result of Higgins's teachings; it is a reflection of her own hard work, self-belief, and determination. She emerges as a symbol of hope and inspiration, demonstrating that anyone can overcome social barriers and achieve their dreams with perseverance and determination.

In conclusion, Pygmalion is a masterpiece of literature that explores profound societal issues and questions the class system, social appearances, and the role of women in society. Through the captivating character of Eliza Doolittle, the play challenges the boundaries of societal expectations and empowers individuals to break free from the constraints of their circumstances. It serves as a reminder of the importance of education, individuality, and the power of transformation. Pygmalion continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the enduring relevance of its themes and the potential for individuals to make a positive impact on the world.

Weight: 148g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781847498595