Essay Topics for Pygmalion

One of the following two topics will be on the Final exam. Prepare for both by discussing the topics in class, taking notes, preparing and outline, finding quotations and writing a thesis statement.

 

1.      Analyze one of the central themes of Shaw’s play that he reveals through Liza’s statement that “the difference between a lady and a flower girl is not how she behaves, but how she’s treated. I shall always be a flower girl to Prof. Higgins, because he always treats me as a flower girl, and always will; but I know I can be a lady to you, because you always treat me as a lady, and always will.” First explain the meaning of the quotation, then discuss whether you agree with it or not, then analyze it as a central theme of the play. What does the quotation reveal about Liza? What does Shaw say about life and social class through this statement? What is his social commentary? Use quotations from throughout the play to support your argument.

2.      Analyze Shaw’s play through the frame of the romance. Analyze how arête, hubris, and sophrosune apply to Higgins. Then think about whether he has actually learned anything in the ending. Is this a failed romance? Is he a better man in the end because of Eliza? Which ending of the play fits best with the romance genre. Or perhaps you can argue it as a truly modern romance with the heroine at the center who is educated by the hero and then drops him in the end because she no longer needs him?

 

 

Study questions: Long Answer

Three of the questions below will be on the exam. For the exam, you will write about one page for each question. Think about, discuss, and take notes on each in order to prepare.

1. Which ending of the play do you like better? Carefully argue why you think this ending is superior.
2. Analyze Prof. Higgins' point of view in the final scene of the play.
   
3. What are some of the central themes of the play. List a few and explain at least two in detail.
4. What is the social commentary Shaw gives through this play?
5. Argue whether you think an ambiguous ending like Shaw’s is better than a decisive one.
6. What are the best characteristics in Prof. Higgins? What is he right about? What do you admire in him?
7. Analyze Mr. Doolittle's role in the play. How does he compare in important ways to Eliza and Higgins.
8. What does Liza mean when she tells Prof. Higgins that she can’t sell anything except for herself now because she can no longer sell flowers. Reflect in detail on this argument.
9. What does Prof. Higgins mean in his response to Liza’s statement--“I shall always be a flower girl to Prof. Higgins”--that he treats everyone like a flower girl. Is consistency the key? What is the essence of his character?
10. Analyze Eliza's point of view in the final scene of the play.
    
11. Analyze Col. Pickering's role in the play.