Pygmalion is a play written by George Bernard Shaw that explores themes of class, gender, and identity. Set in early 20th century London, the story follows the transformation of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl, into a refined lady through the guidance of Professor Henry Higgins. Throughout the play, Shaw presents thought-provoking dialogue that challenges societal norms and sheds light on the complexities of human relationships. In this article, we have compiled a collection of memorable quotes from Pygmalion that highlight its wit, wisdom, and enduring relevance.
Shaw’s ability to craft sharp and witty dialogue is evident in Pygmalion, making it a treasure trove of memorable quotes. These quotes not only capture the essence of the characters but also offer valuable insights into the themes explored in the play. Whether you are a fan of literature or simply looking for some inspiration, these quotes from Pygmalion are sure to leave a lasting impression.
From humorous one-liners to profound observations about society, these quotes from Pygmalion have stood the test of time. They showcase Shaw’s mastery of language and his ability to provoke thought through his characters’ words. So, without further ado, let’s dive into these memorable quotes from Pygmalion:
Read these quotes from Pygmalion
“The difference between a lady and a flower girl is not how she behaves, but how she is treated.”
“The great secret, Eliza, is not having bad manners or good manners or any other particular sort of manners, but having the same manner for all human souls: in short, behaving as if you were in Heaven, where there are no third-class carriages, and one soul is as good as another.”
“It is impossible for an Englishman to open his mouth without making some other Englishman hate or despise him.”
“The English have no respect for their language, and will not teach their children to speak it. It is impossible for an Englishman to open his mouth without making some other Englishman hate or despise him.”
“I shall always be a flower girl to Professor 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.”
“The moment we want to believe something, we suddenly see all the arguments for it, and become blind to the arguments against it.”
“I’m a good girl, I am.”
“I sold flowers. I didn’t sell myself. Now you’ve made a lady of me I’m not fit to sell anything else.”
“I’m a slave to my accent, and can’t speak anything else.”
“You see, really and truly, apart from the things anyone can pick up (the dressing and the proper way of speaking, and so on), 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 Professor 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.”
“You have no idea how frightfully interesting it is to take a human being and change her into a quite different human being by creating a new speech for her.”
“I’m a slave to that accent, and if I can’t get it back, then I might as well be dead.”
“You don’t know the power you have over me. I could crush you.”
“I sold flowers. I didn’t sell myself. Now you’ve made a lady of me, I’m not fit to sell anything else.”
“The thing is, I have feelings exactly like anyone else. All you have to do is treat me as a human being.”
“I’m a good girl, I am.”
“I’m a slave to that accent, and if I can’t get it back, then I might as well be dead.”
“I can’t change my nature. I’m not gonna change my nature. I don’t want to change my nature.”
“You don’t know the power you have over me. I could crush you.”
“I sold flowers. I didn’t sell myself. Now you’ve made a lady of me, I’m not fit to sell anything else.”
“The thing is, I have feelings exactly like anyone else. All you have to do is treat me as a human being.”
“I’m a good girl, I am.”
These quotes from Pygmalion offer a glimpse into the brilliant mind of George Bernard Shaw and the timeless themes explored in the play. Whether you are familiar with the story or discovering it for the first time, these quotes are sure to resonate and spark further contemplation. Pygmalion continues to captivate audiences with its sharp wit, social commentary, and memorable characters, making it a classic piece of literature that continues to inspire and entertain.
