Eva Smith

• What does the inspector's use of emotive language emphasize about Eva's death?

  It emphasizes the tragedy of her death and aims to disturb the characters.
• What metaphor is suggested by the use of "disinfectant" in relation to Eva's death?

  It symbolizes the inspector's attempt to clean up the moral decay within the Birling family.
• How does the verb "burnt" contribute to the portrayal of Eva's life?

  It emphasizes the torment she endured throughout her life.
• What does the phrase "burnt out" imply about the Christian view of suicide in relation to Eva?

  It hints at the idea that suicide is a sinful act with no possibility for escape.
• What does Eva's situation reveal about Edwardian double standards?

  It highlights the cruel treatment based on her birth and wealth.
• How does Sheila's use of wealth reflect on the upper-class attitudes towards the lower classes?

  It criticizes the upper-class for their whimsical and malicious treatment of the lower classes.
• What does Mr. Birling's statement about Eva suggest about the wealthy's view of the working class?

  It shows their arrogance and disregard for the needs of the lower class.
• How does the play depict the treatment of women in Edwardian society through Eva's character?

  It highlights the hypocrisy and the societal pressures that forced women into difficult situations.
• What is Priestley's critique of Edwardian society regarding working-class women like Eva Smith?

  He suggests that society motivated, marginalized, and eliminated working-class women.
• What does the name "Eva" symbolize in the context of the play?

  It symbolizes the first woman in the Bible, linking to themes of compassion and the plight of lower-class women.
• How does Eva's refusal of money from Eric reflect her character?

  It shows her sense of responsibility and integrity compared to Eric's immaturity.
• What does the inspector's questioning of Eva's existence prompt the audience to consider?

  It prompts them to question whether Eva was a real person or a symbolic figure representing her class.
• How does Birling's statement about "girls of her class" reflect societal attitudes?

  It shows the exploitation and devaluation of lower-class women in society.
• What does the inspector imply about societal responsibility in relation to Eva's death?

  He implies that the Birling family and society as a whole are responsible for her downfall.
• What does the description of Eva's last months reveal about her circumstances?

  It reveals her loneliness, starvation, and desperation that led her to prostitution.
• How does the play illustrate the lack of options available to women like Eva Smith?

  It shows that desperation forced her into prostitution due to societal constraints.
• What does the phrase "strong disinfectant" symbolize in the context of Eva's death?

  It symbolizes the moral decay within the Birling family.
• What does the term "superfluous" suggest about Mr. Birling's attitude towards the working class?

  It suggests he views them as unnecessary and unworthy of consideration.
• What is the inspector's role in the play?

  He serves as a moral figure, holding the Birling family accountable for their actions.
• How do class differences affect personal relationships in the play?

  They create barriers and lead to exploitation and misunderstanding.
• How does the play portray the hypocrisy of the Birling family?

  It shows their charitable actions are often self-serving and insincere.
• What role did women play in the workforce during the Edwardian era as depicted in the play?

  They were often marginalized and forced into low-paying jobs.
• What does the phrase "class genocide" imply in the context of the play?

  It implies the systematic oppression and devaluation of the lower class.
• What does the phrase "half-open-doored" suggest about Eva's job?

  It implies a lack of security and the precarious nature of her employment.
• What emotional impact does Eva's story have on the audience?

  It evokes feelings of sympathy and outrage towards the treatment of the lower class.