How does Valentine win the heart of Gloria?
You Never Can Tell is a notable literary work by George Bernard Shaw. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of You Never Can Tell.
Answer
How does Valentine win the heart of Gloria? [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪
Or, How does Valentine try to convince Gloria of his true love?
“You Never Can Tell” (1898) is one of the most famous anti-romantic comedies of George Bernard Shaw (1856–1950). In this play, Valentine unusually wins Gloria’s heart. He does not follow old romantic manners. Instead, he wins her love through honesty, boldness, and natural feeling.
Realistic Attitude: Valentine is not a romantic hero. He does not flatter or kneel before Gloria. He speaks to her directly and confidently. He treats love as a natural and human feeling. His truthful nature touches Gloria’s heart. Shaw presents him as a realistic lover who values honesty over false emotion.
Power of Nature: Valentine believes that love is guided by nature. He feels that nature forces people to love and create life. He says,
“Nature was in deadly earnest with me when I was in jest with her.”
His words show that love is serious and natural, not a game. This natural force pulls Gloria toward him.
Bold Expression of Love: Valentine does not express love through poetry or worship. He expresses it through action and courage. He hugs and kisses Gloria directly, which surprises her. His courage and honesty make her realize her own feelings. Through this bold act, he truly wins her heart.
Scientific View of Love: Valentine also explains love in a witty and scientific manner. He says,
“No, no, no. Not love: we know better than that. Let’s call it chemistry.”
This line shows his modern mind. He treats love as a natural reaction between man and woman, not as dreamy worship.
In short, Valentine wins Gloria’s heart through truth, courage, and natural charm. Shaw uses him to reject false romance. His realistic and honest love proves stronger than old-fashioned romantic words or manners.