Role of social identity in Pygmalion

Role of social identity in Pygmalion by George Bernard shaw

 In "Pygmalion" by George Bernard Shaw, social identity plays a crucial role in shaping the characters and driving the narrative. The concept of social identity refers to how individuals perceive themselves in relation to the various social groups they belong to and how these group memberships influence their behavior, attitudes, and interactions with others.

In the play, social identity is primarily explored through the stark contrast between different classes in Edwardian England. The character of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl, provides a prominent example. Eliza's social identity is initially that of a lower-class individual struggling to survive in a society that often overlooks or dismisses individuals from her background.

Professor Henry Higgins, a phonetics expert, takes on the challenge of transforming Eliza's social identity by teaching her proper speech and manners. Through this process, Shaw exposes the power dynamics and societal prejudices associated with social class. As Eliza's language and appearance change, her social identity begins to shift, and she becomes a source of fascination for the upper-class characters.

Shaw also explores the impact of social identity on individuals' self-perception and aspirations. Eliza's transformation not only alters how others perceive her but also challenges her own perception of herself. As she acquires the skills and attributes associated with the upper class, Eliza starts to question her own worth and struggles to reconcile her new identity with her roots.

Additionally, the play examines how social identity affects the behavior and treatment of characters. The upper-class characters, such as Colonel Pickering and Mrs. Higgins, view Eliza as a mere experiment or project, emphasizing the rigid social hierarchies of the time. Eliza's transformation also exposes the hypocrisy and shallowness of high society, as they judge her based on superficial markers of refinement rather than her intrinsic worth as a person.

Overall, the role of social identity in "Pygmalion" highlights the influence of social class on individual lives, self-perception, and interpersonal dynamics. Shaw uses this exploration to challenge societal norms, question the rigidity of social hierarchies, and underscore the importance of recognizing and valuing individuals beyond their external trappings.

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