Examples Of Appearance Versus Reality In Pygmalion

Through the play Pygmalion, George Bernard Shaw attempts to prove that one is a slave to their own self-worthlessness until they decide to absorb all aspects of growth and truly feel that they are worth it. Shaw incorporates the theme of appearance versus reality to describe the change that Eliza undergoes. Eliza appears to have changed her image of self-worth through her facade of pleasant appearance, proper speech and sense of dignity. However, these aspects are not an accurate representation of her inner state. Eliza does not decide to change internally therefore her views on self-worth remained as she transforms from a flower girl to an "independent woman."

Often times people believe that beauty is an external affair, however true beauty comes from what is inside. furthermore ones internal beauty will only shine through externally if they truly feel that they are beautiful and assimilate their self-worth. In this play, Higgins changes Eliza's appearance when he hands her new dresses and allows her to wash up. Eliza is often times referred to in a negative manner when discussing appearance. Higgins stated that she resembled a rotten cabbage and many other hurtful analogies regarding the way she looks. Eliza is able to fool many into believing that she is a beautiful

McDonald 2 duchess but it is understood that her self-worth remains the same. " Eliza who is exquisitely dressed, produces an impression of such remarkable distinction and beauty as she enters that they all rise, quite flustered. Guided by Higgins signals, she comes to Mr. Higgins with studied grace." This quotation proves that appearance is an easily changeable thing and promotes a more positive outlook from one's peers. Now although it is admirable to have a po...

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...person. One can argue that she is exactly the same person as she was before. Yes her appearance an vocabulary have improved but those aspects are merely superficial. What Higgins really needed to fix was how Eliza viewed herself. However, only Eliza can alter her views on herself . Higgins can help with the apparent changes nevertheless Eliza must dig deeper and really put in a effort to find who she really is. Through analysing aspects of character and theme, a conclusion can be drawn is that within a piece of literature that focuses on the idea of change, the main character does not undergo the most important portion of change which is the understanding and appreciation of their own self-worth. In the end, Eliza remains a slave to her own self-worthlessness because she does not choose to let herself believe that she is truly worth it.