What is the significance of Pygmalion's main character, Eliza Doolittle?

Eliza Doolittle serves as a significant representation of the struggle for women's independence within the context of Edwardian society. Throughout George Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion," Eliza evolves from a flower girl with limited opportunities into a more self-aware and empowered woman who challenges societal expectations. This transformation highlights her journey toward autonomy and self-identity, emphasizing the broader themes of gender roles and social mobility.

As Eliza learns to speak properly and gain knowledge, she begins to assert her independence and desires, showcasing the importance of education and self-improvement. This pursuit underscores the limited agency women had at the time and reflects the burgeoning feminist movements that were advocating for women’s rights. Eliza's rejection of both Professor Higgins and the limitations placed upon her signifies a breakthrough in her character and symbolizes a larger movement towards gender equality during that era. Her character ultimately embodies the aspirations for independence and self-determination that were increasingly sought by women of her time.