In George Bernard Shaw’s timeless play Pygmalion, the secondary characters play a crucial role in shaping the narrative and highlighting the transformation of the protagonist, Henry Higgins, and the central character, Eliza Doolittle. These secondary characters serve various functions within the story, from providing comic relief to representing societal norms and values.
1. Alfred Doolittle: The Comedic Foil
Alfred Doolittle, Eliza’s father, serves as a vivid representation of the lower class in Edwardian society. His character embodies the themes of poverty, social mobility, and the struggle for a better life. Doolittle’s humorous and colorful language, along with his relentless pursuit of money and his desire to remain in his “undeserving” state, adds a comedic element to the play. His interactions with Higgins and Pickering illustrate the stark contrast between the upper and lower classes.
Doolittle’s character underscores the societal and economic disparities of the time. He is a living example of someone striving for financial gain, even at the cost of losing his individuality. His demand for a yearly stipend from Higgins, symbolizing his view of life as a transaction, reflects the prevailing notions of cost, budget, and financial stability in the society portrayed in the play.
2. Colonel Pickering: The Catalyst for Change
Colonel Pickering, a retired British officer, is not merely a secondary character but a pivotal one. He serves as a catalyst for the transformation of Eliza Doolittle. Pickering’s gentlemanly manners, respect for others, and genuine interest in phonetics contrast sharply with Higgins’ abrasive personality. His role as a mentor to Eliza highlights the importance of education and upbringing in shaping an individual’s identity and social standing.
Pickering’s emphasis on efficiency and the importance of linguistic precision aligns with the broader themes of language and communication. In a society where one’s worth is often measured by their ability to communicate effectively, Pickering’s character emphasizes the significance of mastering language and its impact on one’s advancement in life.
3. Mrs. Higgins: The Voice of Reason
Mrs. Higgins, Henry Higgins’ mother, provides a voice of reason and moral guidance in the play. Her character represents the older generation’s values and sensibilities. She challenges her son’s actions and questions the ethical implications of his experiment with Eliza. Her role highlights the themes of ethics, values, and the consequences of one’s actions.
Mrs. Higgins’ concern for Eliza’s well-being and her disapproval of Higgins’ treatment of her underscore the importance of compassion and empathy in a society driven by notions of achievement and success. Her character indirectly raises questions about the moral cost of Higgins’ quest for perfection and the potential toll it may take on the individuals involved.
4. Clara Eynsford-Hill: The Symbol of High Society
Clara Eynsford-Hill and her family serve as symbols of high society and the upper class. While Clara herself is a minor character, her presence highlights the stark contrast between Eliza’s transformation and the aristocratic world she aspires to enter. Clara’s superficiality and lack of substance serve as a critique of the upper classes, emphasizing their focus on appearance, social status, and pedigree.
Clara’s character touches upon the notions of quality, materialism, and social hierarchy prevalent in Edwardian England. Her character embodies the idea that one’s worth can be measured by factors such as birth, material possessions, and social connections.
In conclusion, the secondary characters in Pygmalion fulfill distinct roles in advancing the play’s themes and messages. Alfred Doolittle, Colonel Pickering, Mrs. Higgins, and Clara Eynsford-Hill contribute to the exploration of societal norms, values, ethics, and the transformative power of education and language. They add depth and complexity to the narrative, making Pygmalion a thought-provoking examination of class, identity, and human nature.