At the beginning of the story, Eliza is described as a poorly-educated, insignificant woman who transforms slowly into an authentic lady. Eliza’s negligence at the beginning not only creates the dramatic effect of transformation but also demonstrates that the heroine belongs to the lower status and class. Also, one may see that Eliza as a compassionate person who is not able to defend herself. In some ways, Eliza's over-sensitivity may be described as the outcome of her insecurity. However, the woman is far away from being a romantic figure and is quite an introverted person. Professor Higgins is one who influences the heroine's character. In fact, he transforms a poorly-educated girl into an intelligent woman.
However, it is not poorly his achievement. For sure, without Eliza’s self-discipline and commitment to learning, she could not become a lady she was at the end. Hence, from some perspective, Eliza was her own creator. Eventually, at the end of the play, Eliza gains a lot of confidence and is not afraid to argue her point, defending own rights. One such great example that demonstrates Eliza's achieved self-confidence is the moment when she confronts Higgins on the matter of his insensitivity, stating that she is not dirt under his feet.
The radical changes can be noticed not only in Eliza's speech but also in her appearance and position in society. The only one thing that stays unchangeable is Eliza's great honesty. However, it is actually complicated for Eliza to become a lady as she is merely forced to sacrifice her personality and feelings. Lastly, even though by the merit of her accomplishments the girl gains self-confidence, she is still not a completely independent woman as she relies on the reassurance of Higgins and Pickering.
Eliza Doolittle in the Essays