Language and Mind 05 language and independence and “My Fair Lady”

I have an alternative way of enjoying “My Fair Lady”(a duchess or a flower girl) – the story is about a girl being transformed into a lady, but I can also see it as the history of England, the fall of the Empire.

The story is set in England in 1912. The British Empire, with its colonies and territories, was at its height, holding nearly a quarter of the world’s population, and covering also a quarter of the earth’s land area. It was truly, “the Great Britain”. The people in those days must have been very proud of their mighty country.

In the movie, Professor Higgins seriously tells Eliza, who is so fed up with learning English, the majesty and grandeur of the language, what great project she is trying to conquer. For me, he sounds like “the British Empire” itself speaking, talking of conquering new land, new territory.

……

I know your head aches.

I know you're tired.

I know your nerves are as raw as meat in a butcher's window.

But think what you're trying to accomplish.

Just think what you're dealing with.

The majesty and grandeur of the English language....

It's the greatest possession we have.

The noblest thoughts that ever flowed through the hearts of men...

...are contained in its extraordinary, imaginative... and musical mixtures of sounds.

And that's what you've set yourself out to conquer, Eliza.

And conquer it you will.

……

Higgin’s words are a revelation to Eliza. She suddenly grasps what she is trying to do, and she enjoys her capability to speak the beautiful language like her professor. After this, Eliza is no longer the whining, crying student bossed round by Higgins, and gains confidence and independence from him.

To me, this scene and the following story overlap the state and the history of the then British Empire. From the end of 19^th century to 20^th century, the British Empire starts to give independence to its white colonies – Canada, Australia, New Zealand – letting the country self-govern, but still keeping the influence strong over them.

What happened to Eliza? You have to see for yourself if she gained her full independence.