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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Act 2
Explanation and Analysis—Clothing:
One important motif in Pygmalion is the clothing that Eliza is given during her transformation from uneducated lower-class flower vendor to member of high society. Eliza’s new wardrobe is an important part of her ability to blend into the upper class: it is given to her as an afterthought because the clothing that she arrives in is unusable. Mrs. Pearce mentions this to Mr. Higgins in Act 2, after he and Pickering have decided to take her on as a pupil. She is concerned that Eliza won’t have proper dress and knows that that Mr. Higgins won’t have thought of it. Mrs. Pearce says:
Might she use some of those Japanese dresses you brought from abroad? I really can’t put her back into her old things.
Related Themes:
Act 4
Explanation and Analysis—Clothing:
One important motif in Pygmalion is the clothing that Eliza is given during her transformation from uneducated lower-class flower vendor to member of high society. Eliza’s new wardrobe is an important part of her ability to blend into the upper class: it is given to her as an afterthought because the clothing that she arrives in is unusable. Mrs. Pearce mentions this to Mr. Higgins in Act 2, after he and Pickering have decided to take her on as a pupil. She is concerned that Eliza won’t have proper dress and knows that that Mr. Higgins won’t have thought of it. Mrs. Pearce says:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Might she use some of those Japanese dresses you brought from abroad? I really can’t put her back into her old things.
Related Themes:
