It Happened One Night Transformation Quotes

How we cite our quotes: All quotations are from It Happened One Night.

Quote #1

PETER: Ever hear of the word "humility"? No, you wouldn't.

This is where Ellie is when we first meet her, at least in Peter's estimation. By delivering this verdict, Peter gives a name to the entitled and superior condition that Little Miss Andrews must overcome.

Quote #2

ELLIE: I'd change places with a plumber's daughter any day.

We can't be sure she really knows what she's saying here, but we can be sure she means what she says. Ellie's giving voice to her dissatisfaction with her lot and letting us know that she's more prepared for the humbling she'll undergo than she might have seemed at first.

Quote #3

ELLIE: Here, boy—first town we come to, buy some food.

Again, this moment—when Ellie offers money to the hungry boy on the bus—lets us know that Ellie's transformation from poor little rich girl to full-fledged human being and independent woman is well underway.