Characters

• What effect does the Inspector's mysterious identity have on the audience in Act One?


  It makes the audience wonder about his existence and the information yet to be revealed.
• Who are the characters that show sympathy towards Eva Smith?


  Sheila and Eric
• What hypocrisy does Eric point out regarding Eva Smith's dismissal?


  He criticizes the sacking for asking for higher wages.
• How do Sheila and Eric's responses to the Inspector's story differ from their parents' responses?


  Sheila and Eric show emotional responses, while their parents show no sympathy.
• Why does Sheila choose to stay in the room despite her parents telling her to leave?


  She feels it is her duty to hear the whole story and find out who is responsible.
• What does the Inspector reveal about Eva Smith's name change?


  She changed her name after being sacked from Milwards.
• What might the name "Daisy Renton" symbolize according to the Inspector's explanation?


  It suggests a fresh start but also has connotations of death and prostitution.
• How does Gerald react when he hears the name Daisy Renton?


  He is "startled" and recognizes the name.
• What does Gerald confess to Sheila about his affair with Daisy Renton?


  He says the affair was "over and done with last summer" and suggests keeping it secret.
• How does Sheila perceive the Inspector's knowledge about the situation?


  She believes the Inspector knows everything already and is worried about what he knows that they do not.
• What does the Inspector's action of slowly opening the door signify?


  It indicates he is in control and expects something from them.
• How does Gerald attempt to avoid the Inspector's questions about his past?


  He ignores the questions, implying he wants to evade answering.
• What does Sheila point out about Gerald's treatment of Daisy Renton?


  She points out that Gerald's actions show cruelty.
• How does Gerald describe his relationship with Eva Smith?


  He refers to her as just a "bit of fun."
• What realization does Sheila come to regarding Gerald's actions?


  She begins to understand the seriousness of his actions and feels upset about his treatment of Daisy.
• How does societal perception of infidelity differ between men and women in the context of the play?


  It was considered acceptable for men to be unfaithful, but not for women.
• What does the stage direction suggest about Sheila's view of Gerald after his confession?


  It indicates that Sheila is now looking at Gerald in a new light, hinting at potential consequences for his behavior.
• What implications does the Inspector's judgment have on Gerald's reputation?


  Gerald's behavior could impact the reputation of his wedding and his own reputation.
• What choice does Gerald seem to make regarding the Inspector's authority?


  He appears to side with the Inspector regarding the investigation.