Pygmalion by Bernard Shaw (Penguin Classics)

“Pygmalion” is a play written by George Bernard Shaw, an Irish playwright and critic. It was first performed in 1913 and has since become one of Shaw’s most famous and enduring works. The play is a witty and satirical examination of social class, language, and identity.

“Pygmalion” tells the story of Professor Henry Higgins, a phonetics expert, and Eliza Doolittle, a poor and unrefined flower girl. Higgins takes on the bet of transforming Eliza’s accent and speech patterns to make her pass as a duchess in high society. Through a series of rigorous lessons and linguistic training, Eliza undergoes a dramatic transformation.

As Eliza begins to conform to the standards of the upper class, she faces challenges in her own sense of identity and struggles with the expectations placed upon her. The play raises questions about the nature of social mobility, the impact of language on perceptions of class, and the power dynamics between individuals of different social backgrounds.

Shaw uses sharp dialogue and humor to highlight the absurdities and hypocrisies of Edwardian society. He satirizes the rigid class distinctions and the obsession with appearances, showing the artificiality of social hierarchy. The play also explores themes of independence, self-worth, and the potential for personal growth.

“Pygmalion” has had a significant impact on popular culture and has been adapted into various forms, most notably as the musical “My Fair Lady” in 1956, which further popularized the story. Shaw’s play continues to be performed and studied for its insightful social commentary, engaging characters, and thought-provoking exploration of language, identity, and societal norms.