The Endings of My Fair Lady and Pygmalion: A Deep Dive

The musical and film adaptations of George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion have presented two different endings in the story of Eliza Doolittle and Henry Higgins. Each version offers a unique perspective on Eliza's journey and her final decision. In this article, we explore the endings of both 'My Fair Lady' and 'Pygmalion' and discuss the implications of each.

The Original Play: An Ending to Ponder

In the original play by George Bernard Shaw, 'Pygmalion', the final scene is particularly thought-provoking. After Eliza’s final confrontation with Henry Higgins, she decides to leave him. This confrontation is a pivotal moment, revealing deeper layers of Eliza’s character and her relationship with Higgins. Throughout the play, Eliza has undergone a significant transformation, moving from a Cockney flower girl to a sophisticated woman capable of passing as a lady among the titled and wealthy. However, her journey is not without its conflicts and sacrifices. The decision to leave Higgins signifies her defiance against his paternalistic and sometimes cruel methods. It also highlights a deeper sense of independence and self-determination that Eliza has cultivated through her experiences with Higgins.

The Musical Adaptation: Eliza’s Choice

The 1956 musical 'My Fair Lady', which is based on Shaw’s play, takes a different approach to Eliza's final decision. In the musical, Eliza returns to Henry Higgins's house at the play's conclusion, only to announce that she intends to marry his friend, Freddy Eynsford-Hill. This happy ending contrasts sharply with the original play’s more somber and ambiguous conclusion. The musical concludes on a note of hope and redemption, suggesting that Eliza has found a happier and more fulfilling life through her relationship with Freddy, who she realizes truly cares for her. This ending also reflects a more contemporary and universally recognized narrative, where the protagonist finds love and success after overcoming significant challenges. The musical adaptation, therefore, provides a more sanitized and optimistic version of Eliza's life, emphasizing her ability to integrate into society and form a loving relationship.

The Film Adaptations: Echoes of the Text

The 1938 film adaptation of 'My Fair Lady', starring Leslie Howard and Wendy Hiller, mirrors the play's ending, where Eliza returns to Higgins's house. It’s worth noting that this film is not the same as the later 1964 adaptation starring Audrey Hepburn, which also makes significant changes to the original story. In this film, the ending serves to bridge the gap between the original play and the musical adaptation. The return of Eliza to Higgins’s house, coupled with her declaration, provides a final moment that questions the nature of their relationship and Eliza's future. The film version respects the original play's ending, leaving viewers to ponder the complex dynamics between Eliza and Higgins. It also highlights the tension between societal expectations and personal desires, providing a nuanced look at Eliza's choice.

Which Ending is True?

The question of which ending is "true" is a matter of interpretation, depending on the viewer's perspective. Both endings have their merits and reflect different aspects of Eliza's character and story. The original play's ending, while ambiguous, leaves a lasting impact, emphasizing Eliza's strength and independence. It questions the impact of Higgins' methods and hints at the potential consequences of his actions. The musical and film adaptations, on the other hand, offer a more conventional and hopeful conclusion, emphasizing Eliza's success and happiness. Each version serves to illustrate different themes and perspectives, making it difficult to determine one as more authentic than the other.

Conclusion: The Endings of Pygmalion and My Fair Lady

Whether you prefer the original play's stark and ambiguous ending or the musical and film’s more optimistic conclusion, each version provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between Eliza and Higgins. The original play's ending invites viewers to reflect on the implications of Higgins' training methods and the price Eliza pays for her transformation. The musical and film versions, through their upbeat endings, show Eliza's ability to achieve both social and personal fulfillment. Ultimately, the true ending of 'Pygmalion' and 'My Fair Lady' is a matter of personal interpretation, reflecting the enduring legacy and impact of these works.