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Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion, a captivating play, serves as a poignant portrayal of Victorian societal values through the vibrant and compelling dialogues of its characters. Shaw's genius work transcends the surface narrative, providing a rich tapestry that intricately weaves the complexities of Victorian decorum, particularly the "middle class morality." This essay delves into the multifaceted theme of Victorian morality as depicted in Pygmalion, unraveling the layers of societal expectations and the subtle critiques woven into the play.
The Victorian era, marked by rigid class distinctions, serves as the backdrop for Shaw's exploration of societal values.
The stark differences between the rich and the poor manifested in various aspects of life—attire, behavior, and language. Shaw, through his characters, skillfully highlights the contrasting lives led by these two strata of society. The overarching theme revolves around the "middle class morality," a term frequently echoed in Mr. Doolittle's speech, elucidating the societal norms and expectations of the time.
Within this societal framework, a notable aspect of middle class morality is the obligation imposed on men to protect and support women, whether the need is genuine or not.
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Proficient in: Moral
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“ Ok, let me say I’m extremely satisfy with the result while it was a last minute thing. I really enjoy the effort put in. ”
Act I of Pygmalion unfolds this burden as Clara, a woman, demands Freddy, a man, to find a taxi for her. Despite Freddy's reluctance, he adheres to his role, only to discover that his efforts were in vain. This scenario reflects the superficiality of chivalry, more akin to a hypocritical routine than genuine gallantry. The onlookers in Act I also exemplify this empty heroism, standing up for Eliza, a woman, under the false impression of rescuing her from Professor Higgins and his perceived malevolence.
Conversely, women in Victorian society were burdened with expectations to secure a wealthy man for support, as they were not deemed fit for labor but rather for refining themselves as symbols of success in their households.
Professor Higgins embodies this belief, intending Eliza to be a "consort for a king" and expressing astonishment when she chooses to marry Freddy. Eliza's stepmother, compelled by middle class morality, decides to marry Doolittle again, showcasing the societal coercion that dictated such actions.
The character of Mr. Doolittle assumes significance in deciphering the nuances of middle class morality. Initially a minor character, Doolittle undergoes a profound transformation when he becomes an unexpected beneficiary of the Wannafeller Moral Reform World League. This windfall thrusts him into a paradoxical position of experiencing both poverty and prosperity.
Doolittle's testimony, "I have to live for others and not for myself: that's middle class morality," encapsulates the irony embedded in Victorian values. Shaw masterfully portrays Doolittle as a living contradiction, enjoying the simplicity and joy of poverty while bemoaning the woes that accompany prosperity. This portrayal serves as a scathing commentary on the supposed virtues of middle class morality, challenging the conventional wisdom of societal expectations.
Shaw, through Pygmalion, weaves not-so-subtle critiques to tarnish the sanctity of middle class morality. The play becomes a platform for the playwright to expose the superficiality and inherent contradictions embedded in the societal norms of the Victorian era. The characters and their interactions serve as a lens through which Shaw dismantles the facade of moral righteousness, making Pygmalion a compelling narrative worthy of scholarly examination.
In conclusion, Pygmalion stands as a captivating exploration of Victorian morality, dissecting the intricacies of middle class morality through the lens of its characters. Shaw's deliberate critiques, embedded within the dialogue and actions, unravel the paradoxes and absurdities of societal expectations. The play's enduring relevance lies in its ability to provoke thoughtful reflection on the values that shaped the Victorian era, inviting readers to question the authenticity of middle class morality and its implications on society.
Exploring Victorian Morality in Shaw's Pygmalion. (2016, Jul 31). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/middle-class-morality-in-pygmalion-essay
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