Psychological Dynamics in Shaw's Pygmalion

Role of Psychology in Shaw's Pygmalion

Psychology plays a significant role in Higgins' relationship with Eliza. Although everybody wants somebody to love, they don't seem to be capable of a close relationship.

Higgins on the one hand can be described as a rude, careless and impolite character, but at the same time likeable because of his fascination and dedication to his work. His mother holds a great fascination for him, she speaks properly, has good manners and is the only woman Higgins adores. In general, he appears small-minded and doesn't reflect about problems Eliza might be confronted with. Eliza, on the other hand, is willing to learn and does her best to please Higgins. When she becomes aware of Higgins' goals she eventually gets disappointing and angry. She feels as the subject of the experiment, while Higgins, never reflecting about her feelings, treats her in an impersonal way and can't understand her. There can't be a relationship, in which both obtain an equal position. Henry and Eliza don't fit together because of their strong characters.

Eliza knows that she can't go back to her old life, but otherwise, she has no firm position in society. Instead of fetching Higgins's slippers, she marries Freddy who has a weaker character. Perhaps Freddy would fetch her slippers, but she is keen to work, too. Her rebellion becomes more obvious in comparison to Higgins. She shows that she is not a mere subject, but a freethinking individual. In a realistic manner, she finds Higgins' weak point and overrules his subjections. She doesn't want to be intimidated.

So in conclusion, we can say that it was not Higgins who has created a new woman by himself. Indeed, Eliza has changed her personality through her own efforts. This is due to Higgins' treatment: he didn't consider her feelings. [296]