Character analysis

• What is the significance of the inspector appearing after Burling's statement?

  It suggests Burling's words have summoned the inspector, indicating a supernatural element
• What does the quotation "a man has to mind his own business" represent in the context of the play?


  It represents Burling's selfish capitalist viewpoint
• How does the speaker connect Burling's character to capitalism?

  Burling is portrayed as a construct to explore the flaws of capitalism
• What does the phrase "hard-headed practical man of business" imply about Burling?


  It suggests he is unfeeling and selfish, characteristic of capitalism
• How does the speaker link Burling's language to the Labour Party manifesto?

  The language reflects the complaints against hard-headed businessmen during the 1945 election
• What does the speaker suggest about the relationship between Sheila and Gerald?

  Sheila is viewed as a business opportunity by Burling
• How does the speaker describe Gerald's treatment of Eva/Daisy?

  Gerald exploits her while pretending to care for her
• What does the speaker imply about the nature of Gerald's character?

  Even seemingly good men can be cruel if they are capitalist
• What does the speaker argue about Eric's responsibility for Eva's death?

  Eric is most to blame because of his actions and social class
• How does the speaker characterize Mrs. Birling's view of social classes?

  She is dismissive and feels superior to the working class
• What is the irony in Mrs. Birling's charity work?

  She refuses to help those who need it most, reinforcing social hierarchy
• What does the inspector's statement "we are all of one body" suggest?


  It emphasizes the need for equality and collective responsibility
• How does the speaker interpret Eric's quotation about profits and wages?

  It is an attack on capitalism and suggests a desire for equality
• What does Eric's behavior towards Eva reveal about his character?

  He exploits her and does not treat her as an equal
• How does the speaker describe the societal norms reflected in Eric's actions?

  They normalize male exploitation of women
• What does the speaker suggest about Eric's self-perception?

  He deceives himself into thinking he is a good person despite his actions
• What does Mrs. Birling's dismissal of Eva as "a girl of that class" signify?


  It reflects her disdain for the working class and reinforces social hierarchy
• How does the speaker characterize the relationship between Eric and Eva?

  Eric's relationship with Eva is exploitative and reflects patriarchal norms
• What does the speaker imply about the impact of social class on Eric's actions?

  Eric's upper-class status allows him to exploit Eva without consequence
• What does the speaker suggest about the overall message of the play regarding capitalism?

  The play critiques capitalism and its effects on individuals and society
• How does the speaker connect the themes of the play to the historical context of 1945?


  Priestley uses the play to advocate for a welfare state and social equality post-war
• What are the key themes explored in the play regarding capitalism and social hierarchy?

  • Critique of capitalism
  • Exploitation of the working class
  • Social responsibility and equality
  • The impact of social class on individual actions
• How can students effectively link quotations to achieve higher grades?


  • Use relevant quotations for characters and themes
  • Connect quotations to the author's ideas and perspectives
  • Analyze language and context for deeper understanding
• What are the characteristics of the main characters in relation to capitalism?

  • Burling: Represents selfish capitalism
  • Gerald: Exploits Eva while appearing kind
  • Eric: Challenges capitalist norms and seeks equality
  • Mrs. Birling: Upholds social hierarchy and dismisses the working class
• What does the word "nasty" suggest about Eric's actions in the play?


  It implies that his behavior is unpleasant and harmful.
• How does Eric distance himself from his actions in the play?


  By referring to himself as a "chap" instead of a "man."
• What does Eric's self-deception reveal about his character?


  It shows he struggles to accept the seriousness of his actions.
• What drastic action did Eva take instead of returning to Eric?


  She committed suicide.
• How does Eric respond when accused of stealing fifty pounds?


  He claims he intended to pay it back.
• What does the audience understand about the value of fifty pounds in the context of the play?


  It represents over 40 weeks of wages for Eva.
• What does Eric's spending on drinking suggest about his character?


  It indicates he is irresponsible with money.
• How does Sheila's quotation at the end of the play reflect her character development?


  It shows she has learned the inspector's lesson.
• What role does Sheila play in relation to the inspector's message?


  She acts as a proxy for the inspector's message of responsibility.
• What does Sheila's refusal of Gerald's ring signify?


  It suggests she is contemplating her decision and the implications of accepting it.
• How does Gerald's character represent the themes of the play?


  He embodies the capitalist values that the inspector criticizes.
• What does Sheila's statement about Gerald's honesty reveal about her perception of him?


  It indicates she is trying to rationalize his actions.
• How does Sheila's self-blame reflect societal expectations of women?


  It illustrates how women are conditioned to take responsibility for men's actions.
• What does the inspector's final message about responsibility imply about society?


  It suggests that individuals must recognize their interconnectedness and responsibilities to one another.
• How does the phrase "fire and blood and anguish" relate to the play's themes?


  It symbolizes the consequences of ignoring social responsibility.
• What biblical reference is made in the inspector's message about being "members of one body"?


  It connects to the Christian idea of community and shared responsibility.