Eric Birling

• "Half Shy, Half Assertive"


  The adjective ‘shy’ conveys apprehension and nervousness which juxtaposes the implications of dominance and confidence portrayed from the adjective ‘assertive’. This contrasting language illustrates how Eric is struggling to find his place in the world
• Why shouldn't they try for higher wages?"

  Eric subverts the stereotype of a wealthy male by suggesting that Mr Birling should not have dismissed Eva from her job. He challenges his father’s ruthless and cruel actions. Eric acts as a dramatic irritant to his father by challenging his ideology of Capitalism. Eric’s reaction illustrates how the younger generation are more sympathetic to the plight of the poor.
• "I didn't even remember- that's the hellish thing. Oh-my-God!"


  Religious language could indicate genuine repentance. He recognises that he put her through hell and his actions were sinful. “Hellish” – Eric’s thoughtless pleasure causes great pain to Eva. Deserves to be sent to Hell as punishment for crimes if he doesn’t accept responsibility. Suggests a murky world that is normal behaviour for a middle/upper class man. Dashes reveal anguish and guilt at his own actions. Short sentences could reveal that his egotistical nature has broken down.
• "I insisted"


  This emphasises the powerlessness and exploitation of Eva and the proletariat in general. Eric took advantage of Eva’s desperate situation. His behaviour shows no humanity for Eva as a person- he just uses his power and privilege for his own selfish wants and desires.

   
• "pretty and a good sport"


  Eric refers to Eva as a ‘good sport’ demonstrating a lack of respect. He perceives her as a toy or a game which exists solely for his use and pleasure. Eric’s abuse of Eva could act as a metaphor for the abuse of the working classes as a whole.  The references to her attractiveness ‘pretty’ demonstrate that she was judged on appearances. She is a play-thing to be used and discarded.
• "we all helped to kill her"

  The collective pronoun “we” indicates that he is addressing everyone in his family. Eric doesn’t just blame his parents; he realises that they all had a role to play. It illustrates he is appalled at his parents’ inability to accept responsibility. Eric echo’s the Inspector and Priestley’s moral message about the importance of collective responsibility.