Question no 01:

Representation of social classes in Pygmalian: The play shows how the

belief that one’s social class and manners are natural is false. As Eliza’s
transformation shows, manners and nobility can be learned. One’s class is
formed through performance, learning to act in certain ways.
In George Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion," social class is a central theme,
explored through the stark contrast between Eliza Doolittle, a working-class
flower girl, and Professor Henry Higgins, an upper-class phonetics expert,
and the societal expectations and prejudices they face. Here's a more
detailed look at how social class is represented in "Pygmalion":

 The Contrast: The play highlights the vast difference between Eliza's
impoverished background and Higgins' privileged one, showcasing the
barriers imposed by social status.
 Eliza's Transformation: Eliza's journey to "pass" as a lady through
Higgins' lessons underscores how social mobility is often tied to
appearance, speech, and manners, rather than inherent worth.
 Prejudices and Stereotypes: Eliza faces discrimination and limited
opportunities due to her accent and social status, highlighting the
prejudices and stereotypes associated with class.
 Social Mobility: The play questions the notion of social mobility,
suggesting that while transformation is possible, it doesn't necessarily
guarantee happiness or true acceptance.
 Higgins' Perspective: Higgins views Eliza's transformation as a
scientific experiment, reducing her to a "thing" and dehumanizing her,
reflecting the shallowness of the upper class.
 Pickering's Perspective: Pickering, while also from a higher social class
than Eliza, treats her with respect and kindness, contrasting with Higgins'
condescending attitude and highlighting the importance of human
connection over social status.
 The Middle Class: The play also touches upon the middle class,
represented by characters like Mrs. Higgins and the "pushy" Clara,
showing how they navigate the social landscape and their own struggles
with maintaining appearances.
 Eliza's Independence: Eliza's eventual independence from Higgins and
her refusal to be defined by her class demonstrates her growth and her
desire for self-determination.
 Speech as a Marker of Class: The play emphasizes that speech alone
can define one's social standing, as Higgins believes that by changing
Eliza's accent and mannerisms, he can transform her into a lady.
 The Importance of Manners: The play explores the idea that manners
and social graces are not natural but learned, and that they can be used
to navigate social hierarchies.
One of the main aspects of social strife in Pygmalion is the stark division
between different social classes. Shaw highlights the stark contrast
between the upper class, represented by characters like Higgins, and the
lower class, represented by Eliza.
Social Strife and Class Conflict in George Bernard Shaw's
'Pygmalion'

George Bernard Shaw, born on July 26, 1856, was an Irish playwright, critic,
polemicist, and political activist. He recognized simply as Bernard Shaw.
Shaw's influence on Western theater, culture, and politics spanned from the
1880s until his death and continues to be significant even today. He was a
prolific writer, penning over sixty plays, including notable works such as Man
and Superman (1902), Pygmalion (1913), and Saint Joan (1923).

Shaw's writing encompassed a wide range of styles, from modern satire to

historical allegory. His plays often delved into social and political issues of the
time, challenging conventional norms and questioning established beliefs.
Shaw's wit and sharp social commentary made him a leading dramatist of his
generation.

In recognition of his literary achievements, George Bernard Shaw was

awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925. His plays continue to be
performed and studied around the world, and his ideas on topics like social
equality, feminism, and socialism remain influential. Shaw's legacy as a
playwright, critic, and activist continues to shape and inspire the fields of
theater, culture, and politics.

George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion explores the themes of social strife and
class conflict. which are central to the story. Set in early 20th century
London, the play revolves around the transformation of a working-class
flower girl, Eliza Doolittle, into a refined and eloquent lady under the tutelage
of Professor Henry Higgins.

One of the main aspects of social strife in Pygmalion is the stark division
between different social classes. Shaw highlights the stark contrast between
the upper class, represented by characters like Higgins, and the lower class,
represented by Eliza. The play showcases the prejudices and stereotypes
that exist between these classes and the challenges faced by individuals
attempting to transcend their social status,
The class conflict in Pygmalion is exemplified through the character of Eliza.
As a working-class woman, she experiences marginalization, poverty, and
limited opportunities. Through her transformation, Eliza becomes acutely
aware of the disparity in treatment and the power dynamics associated with
social class. She challenges the conventions and expectations placed upon
her and strive to assert her worth as a human being.

Shaw uses sharp dialogue and biting satire to expose the hypocrisy and
absurdity of the class system. He critiques the rigid social hierarchy, showing
how individuals are judged based on their birth and accent rather than their
inherent qualities. The play raises questions about social mobility and the
barriers that prevent individuals from breaking free from their predetermined
societal roles.

Furthermore, "Pygmalion" examines the role of language and speech as

markers of social class. Higgins, a phonetician, believes that one's accent
and manner of speaking determine their social status. By transforming Eliza's
speech patterns, he aims to change her social standing. This highlights the
inherent biases and discrimination based on language and accent that exist
within society.

Ultimately, Shaw's Pygmalion serves as a critique of the social stratification

and inequality prevalent in Edwardian society. It challenges the notion that
one's social class determines their worth and advocates for the recognition of
individual potential and inherent dignity. Through the story of Eliza Doolittle,
Shaw raises awareness about social strife and class conflict, emphasizing the
need for greater equality and understanding among people from different
backgrounds..

In "Pygmalion," George Bernard Shaw explores the theme of class conflict by

depicting the stark divide between different social classes and examining the
impact of social status on individuals' lives.

The play introduces two main characters that represent contrasting social
classes. Eliza Doolittle, a working-class flower girl, is struggling to survive in
poverty. On the other hand, Professor Henry Higgins, an upper-class
phonetics expert, is part of the privileged elite. This stark contrast in their
backgrounds sets the stage for the exploration of class conflict.
Shaw highlights the prejudices and stereotypes associated with social class.
Eliza, as a lower-class individual, faces discrimination, marginalization, and
limited opportunities due to her accent, manners, and lack of education. Her
transformation under Higgins' guidance raises questions about the impact of
appearance, speech, and social status on one's treatment and opportunities
within society.

The play also challenges the notion of social mobility and the barriers
individuals face in trying to transcend their predetermined social roles.
Eliza's attempt to improve her social standing through learning proper
speech and manners illustrates the difficulties faced by those trying to move
between classes. Shaw criticizes the rigid class structure that denies equal
opportunities based on birth and accent, emphasizing the need for a more
inclusive and fair society.
Furthermore, Shaw uses the interactions and conflicts between characters
from different classes to highlight the hypocrisy and absurdity of the class
system. The snobbery and condescension exhibited by some upper-class
characters, such as Higgins and his mother, reveal the inherent biases and
prejudices that exist within society.
Overall, Shaw’s “Pygmalion” explores class conflict by exposing the
disparities, prejudices, and challenges faced by individuals from different
social classes. It raises questions about social inequality, mobility, and the
importance of recognizing one’s intrinsic worth beyond superficial markers of
class. Through sharp wit and social commentary, Shaw prompts the audience
to reflect on the impact of class divisions and advocate for a more equitable
society.
Pygmalion as a representation of social class Certainly! Pygmalion by
George Bernard Shaw is a profound exploration of social class, exposing the
rigid structures that define and limit individuals within society. Below is a
detailed analysis of how the play represents social class through its
characters, themes, and structure.

Social Class in Pygmalion The British Class System and Its Rigidity
The play is set in Edwardian England, a time when class distinctions were
deeply entrenched. The upper class enjoyed wealth, education, and power,
while the lower classes had limited opportunities for upward mobility. Shaw
critiques this rigid system by showing how superficial its boundaries are,
particularly through Eliza Doolittle’s transformation.
  Class is not inherent: The play demonstrates that class is largely
based on external factors—speech, dress, and manners—rather than
inherent intelligence or morality.
 Social mobility is difficult: While Eliza changes outwardly, she
struggles to find a place in society, revealing that social acceptance is
not guaranteed even if one adopts upper-class behaviours.

Language as a Marker of Class One of the most significant ways

Pygmalion critiques class is through language. Shaw illustrates how speech
patterns determine social status, and how the ability to speak "proper"
English grants access to better opportunities.
 Higgins' Experiment: Professor Henry Higgins, a linguist, boasts that
he can transform Eliza, a Cockney flower girl, into someone who could
pass as a duchess simply by teaching her proper pronunciation and
etiquette. This underscores the arbitrary nature of class divisions.
 Linguistic Prejudice: The play highlights how accents and dialects
are used to judge people unfairly. Eliza, despite being intelligent and
resourceful, is dismissed as inferior simply because of her Cockney
speech.
 Contrast with Alfred Doolittle: Eliza’s father, who speaks in
working-class slang, is also judged by his language, reinforcing the
idea that social class is often determined by superficial traits rather
than ability or character.

Eliza Doolittle’s Struggle for Identity Eliza’s journey is at the heart of the
play’s critique of class. She undergoes a dramatic transformation but finds
herself caught between two worlds.
 Lower-Class Struggles: At the beginning of the play, Eliza is poor
and looked down upon. She aspires to work in a flower shop, but her
accent prevents her from being taken seriously.
 Upper-Class Expectations: After Higgins trains her to speak like an
upper-class woman, she is presented in high society. While people
accept her as a lady based on her refined speech and dress, she
realizes she is still treated as an outsider.
 Caught Between Classes: By the end of the play, Eliza is neither
fully lower-class nor truly accepted by the upper class. This highlights
how difficult it is to truly change social status, as class is not just about
appearance but also about deep-seated social attitudes.

Alfred Doolittle’s Accidental Rise in Class Eliza’s father, Alfred Doolittle,

serves as a humorous but insightful commentary on class mobility.
 From Dustman to Middle Class: Doolittle, a poor dustman,
accidentally becomes wealthy when an American millionaire, mistaking
him for a "moral philosopher," leaves him money.
  Unwanted Social Responsibility: Ironically, Doolittle dislikes his new
status. He complains that being wealthy comes with social
expectations and burdens, such as marriage and responsibility. This
suggests that moving up in class is not always desirable or liberating.
 Satire of the Middle Class: Doolittle’s character pokes fun at the
middle class, showing that wealth does not automatically bring
happiness or freedom.

Professor Higgins and the Upper-Class Attitude Higgins represents the

educated upper class and embodies the arrogance and detachment often
associated with it.
 Patronizing Attitude: Higgins treats Eliza as an experiment rather
than a person, reflecting how the upper class often sees the lower
class as objects of amusement or charity rather than equals.
 Indifference to Social Norms: While Higgins criticizes class
distinctions, he also benefits from them. His privilege allows him to
ignore social conventions, while Eliza must navigate them carefully.
 Lack of Emotional Awareness: Unlike Eliza, who becomes deeply
aware of her social position, Higgins remains largely oblivious to the
struggles she faces, emphasizing the divide between the privileged
and the working class.

Class and Gender: A Double Oppression Eliza’s experience highlights

not only class struggles but also the additional limitations placed on women.
 Women’s Dependence on Men: In Edwardian society, women,
particularly those from lower classes, had limited independence. Eliza
initially relies on Higgins for education and a new social position.
 Assertion of Independence: By the end of the play, Eliza rejects
Higgins' control, showing her desire to define her own identity rather
than being shaped by class expectations.
 Contrast with Mrs. Higgins and Clara: Mrs. Higgins, a well-
mannered upper-class woman, represents traditional upper-class
female roles, while Clara, a young upper-class woman, desires to break
away from conventions. These characters further explore how class
and gender intersect.

Satirical and Social Critique Shaw wrote Pygmalion as a satire of British

society, challenging the idea that class distinctions were natural or justified.

 Exposing Hypocrisy: The play reveals how arbitrary class markers

are—Eliza can pass as upper-class simply by changing her speech, but
her true character remains the same.
 Critique of the Aristocracy: The upper class is shown to be
superficial, judging people by their appearance rather than their
abilities.
  The Illusion of Social Mobility: While Eliza changes externally, she
struggles to find a place where she is truly accepted, showing the
limits of class mobility.

Conclusion: The Illusion of Class Change

Through Pygmalion, Shaw presents a powerful critique of the class system,
arguing that social divisions are artificial and that true mobility is often
illusory. The play questions whether external changes, such as language and
appearance, can truly alter one's social position or if deeper biases will
always remain.

Eliza’s transformation ultimately exposes the superficiality of class

distinctions. She learns to navigate society but also realizes that acceptance
is not just about changing how one speaks—it's about changing how society
perceives her, a much harder battle. In this way, Pygmalion remains a
timeless reflection on class struggles, privilege, and identity.