Men have to do some awfully mean things to keep up their respectability

Men have to do some awfully mean things to keep up their respectability

In the world of George Bernard Shaw, the idea that men have to do some awfully mean things to keep up their respectability is a recurring theme. Shaw was a playwright and critic known for his sharp wit and social commentary, and his works often explore the complexities of human nature and the societal pressures that shape our behavior.

One of Shaw's most famous plays, "Pygmalion," delves into the idea of respectability and the lengths to which people will go to maintain their social standing. The protagonist, Henry Higgins, is a phonetics professor who takes on the challenge of transforming a Cockney flower girl, Eliza Doolittle, into a refined lady. Throughout the play, Higgins manipulates and bullies Eliza in order to mold her into his idea of respectability. He is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goal, even if it means treating Eliza in a cruel and degrading manner.