George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion, a witty and timeless comedy, follows the transformation of a Cockney flower girl, Eliza Doolittle, into a lady of high society by the phonetics professor, Henry Higgins. This adaptation, by playwright Steve Cleberg, retains the sharp wit and social commentary of Shaw's original, exploring the battle of the sexes and societal class divisions with humor and charm. The play, which served as the inspiration for the beloved musical My Fair Lady, remains remarkably relevant today, tackling universal themes with enduring appeal. Cleberg, a respected playwright and former theatre professor, brings his expertise to this fresh interpretation of a classic.
Review Pygmalion
I absolutely loved Pygmalion! Going in, I knew it was the basis for My Fair Lady, but reading the play itself was a completely different experience. It's sharp, witty, and surprisingly relevant even today. Shaw's writing is brilliant; the dialogue crackles with energy, and the social commentary is both insightful and hilarious. The relationship between Higgins and Eliza is the heart of the story, and it’s far more complex and nuanced than the musical adaptation lets on.
Higgins, the brilliant but socially inept phonetics professor, is fascinating. He's a master of his craft, a true sculptor of language, but his arrogance and lack of emotional intelligence make him deeply flawed. Watching him attempt to "improve" Eliza is both compelling and frustrating – you see his genius at work, but you also cringe at his often insensitive treatment of her. This creates a fascinating tension that keeps you engaged throughout.
Eliza, far from being a passive recipient of Higgins's "project," is a vibrant character with her own strength and resilience. She's resourceful, quick-witted, and possesses a surprising amount of inner strength. While she initially benefits from Higgins's tutelage, her transformation isn't just about language; it's about self-discovery and independence. This is where the play truly shines – it's not simply a story of transformation, but a story of self-determination. The ending, so different from the movie's romantic conclusion, is both satisfying and thought-provoking. It leaves you considering the complexities of relationships, societal expectations, and the true meaning of personal growth.
The AmazonClassics edition I read was perfect – clean, well-formatted, and free of distracting annotations. The inclusion of a concise biography at the end was a nice touch. The X-Ray feature was also extremely helpful, providing quick access to character mentions and cultural context. This made navigating the historical aspects of the play much easier.
Overall, Pygmalion is a masterpiece of comedic drama. It’s a witty, intelligent, and surprisingly moving exploration of class, gender, and personal transformation. It's a play that stays with you long after you finish reading it, prompting reflection and conversation. Whether you're a fan of classic literature, a theatre enthusiast, or simply looking for a sharp and engaging read, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Pygmalion a try. Just be prepared for a more complex and arguably more realistic portrayal of the characters than the beloved musical adaptation.
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- Language: English
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