Eric Birling

Cards (11)

“not quite at ease” 
Struggles with confidence and identity
2) “half shy, half assertive” 
Highlights his conflicting nature - hindered by insecurity
3) “You’re squiffy” 
Colloquial phrase for being drunk - character flaw
4) “Why shouldn’t they try for higher wages?” 
Condemns his father’s capitalist views
Able to empathise with the lower class
5) I was in that state where a chap easily turns nasty” 
Attempts to normalise his immoral behaviour
“chap” = alcohol-fuelled violence is a familiar and acceptable state for men
6) “she was pretty and a good sport-“ 
Takes advantage of a vulnerable woman
”good sport” = her compliance is a good quality
7) “I’m ashamed of you as well - yes both of you” 
Copies the Inspector’s use of harsh language and takes a parental role
8) “He was our police inspector all right” 
Is aligned with the Inspector’s message of accountability and has developed moral social consciousness
“our” = recognition of their collective responsibility
9) “(bursting out)” 
Shows his frustration and he breaks free from infantilisation
10) “I don’t see much nonsense about it when a girl goes and kills herself”  
Continues to show progress as his character and keeps the Inspector‘s message
11) “The one I knew is dead” 
“knew”= personal responsibility taken
Reinforces moral implications of their treatment of Eva and shows his guilt