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Irony
Definition of Metaphor
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other. The comparison in a metaphor can be stated explicitly, as... read full definition
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other. The comparison in a metaphor... read full definition
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other... read full definition
Act 2
Explanation and Analysis—Blocks of Wood:
In Act 2, Higgins uses a metaphor to respond to Pickering’s insistence that Eliza not be taken advantage of during their experiment. Higgins wants to make it clear that nothing personal will occur between Eliza and himself during their tutelage. He uses a metaphor to convey his level of detachment from his pupils, and reassures Pickering that nothing inappropriate will take place. In proper Higgins fashion, he brags about his experience as a tutor in order to downplay the significance of the current situation. Higgins says:
I’ve taught scores of American millionairesses how to speak English: the best looking women in the world. I’m seasoned. They might as well be blocks of wood. I might as well be a block of wood.
Related Themes:
Act 3
Explanation and Analysis—A Live Doll:
In Act 3, Mrs. Higgins uses a metaphor to communicate her disapproval of the bet about Eliza’s transformation. She has just been told that Mr. Higgins and Pickering have taken Eliza on and are attempting to help her pass in high society. Though the men are excited by their experiment, Mrs. Higgins sees their actions in a more negative light. In order to convey her displeasure, she uses a metaphor about the men and their relationship with Eliza, trying to make them think more critically about what they are attempting to do. She says:
Unlock with LitCharts A+You certainly are a pretty pair of babies, playing with your live doll.
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Act 4
Explanation and Analysis—Angry Cat:
In Act 4, Higgins uses a metaphor to respond to Eliza’s emotional outburst, comparing her to an animal in an attempt to belittle her. Eliza has flown into a rage because Higgins and Pickering have given her inadequate credit for her hard work as their student. She begins to claw at her own face, as she is overcome by her anger and struggles to find an appropriate outlet. She would like to attack Higgins, but instead turns the violence inward, clutching at her own face. In response, Higgins continues to disrespect her, using this metaphor as he tries to convince her not to harm herself:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Ah! Would you? Claws in, you cat. How dare you show your temper to me?
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