George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion receives praise for its sharp wit, rich character development, and social commentary on class and transformation. Critics appreciate Shaw's clever dialogue and engaging narrative. However, some express dissatisfaction with the ambiguous ending and occasional didactic tone. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking and enduring work.

A reader who enjoys Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw likely appreciates witty social commentary and character-driven narratives. Comparable to fans of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Shakespeare's comedies, or Oscar Wilde's works, they revel in incisive explorations of class, identity, and transformation within a humorous and theatrical context.

In Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw, Professor Henry Higgins, a phonetics expert, bets he can transform Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl, into a refined lady who can pass for a duchess. Through rigorous speech lessons, Eliza's transformation astonishes society, leading to unexpected consequences for her identity and future.

Humorous / Informative / Playful / Contemplative / Romantic

- Shaw's Pygmalion was adapted into the famous musical My Fair Lady, which further catapulted the story to global acclaim.
- George Bernard Shaw insisted that no romantic relationship should develop between the main characters, Henry Higgins and Eliza Doolittle, despite popular audience expectations.
- The title Pygmalion references the Greek myth of a sculptor who falls in love with his own creation, drawing a parallel to Professor Higgins' attempts to transform Eliza.

**Eliza Doolittle**  
Eliza Doolittle is a flower girl whose transformation from a low-class street vendor to a lady under the tutelage of Professor Henry Higgins is central to the story. Her journey reflects themes of social mobility and self-discovery.

**Henry Higgins**  
Henry Higgins is a professor of phonetics and an expert in dialects who takes on the experiment of transforming Eliza Doolittle's speech. Though brilliant in his field, he often lacks manners and sensitivity towards others.

**Alfred Doolittle**  
Alfred Doolittle is Eliza’s father, a dustman with a humorous and candid outlook on life. His character provides commentary on class and societal expectations.

**Colonel Pickering**  
Colonel Pickering is a gentleman and fellow phonetics enthusiast who supports Higgins in his experiment with Eliza. He is known for treating Eliza with kindness and respect.

**Freddy Eynsford Hill**  
Freddy Eynsford Hill is a young man from a genteel but impoverished family who becomes infatuated with Eliza. His character contrasts with Higgins, as Freddy treats Eliza with admiration.

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Overview

Explore the themes of class and identity in Pygmalion, as Eliza Doolittle navigates societal expectations. Read a comprehensive summary and analysis for insights

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Act Summaries & Analyses

Act I

Pygmalion Act I Act Summary & Analysis

Act II

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Act III

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Act IV

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Act V

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Character Analysis

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Themes

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Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

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Introduction

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Before Reading

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During Reading

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