Character of Eliza Doolittle

Eliza Doolittle is the central female character in Pygmalion and represents transformation, self-respect, and inner strength. At the beginning of the play, Eliza is a poor flower girl who speaks in a harsh local dialect. Because of her accent and social position, she is treated with disrespect and looked down upon by society. However, she is ambitious and determined to improve her life.

Eliza approaches Henry Higgins to learn correct English so that she can earn a respectable living. Though the training is extremely demanding and often humiliating, Eliza shows remarkable patience, courage, and hard work. Gradually, she masters refined speech and manners and successfully passes as a lady in high society.

Eliza’s true growth, however, is emotional and moral rather than linguistic. When Higgins ignores her feelings after the success of the experiment, she realises her own worth and demands respect. By the end of the play, Eliza emerges as an independent and confident woman who values dignity over social approval. Thus, Eliza symbolizes the power of self-awareness and personal identity.

Eliza Doolittle – Key Traits

• Poor flower girl from the lower class at the beginning

• Speaks a crude dialect, which leads to social discrimination

• Ambitious and determined to improve her life

• Hard-working and patient during her difficult training

• Emotionally sensitive but mentally strong

• Learns refined speech and manners successfully

• Seeks dignity, not just social status

• Develops self-respect and independence

• Symbol of inner transformation and empowerment