Eric Birling

• What are the three key quotations for Eric Burling?

  1. "I don't remember... that's the hellish thing."
  2. "You lot."
  3. "Maybe you’ve let yourself off nicely."
• How does Priestly describe Eric's demeanor in the opening stage directions?

  Half shy, half assertive
• Why might Eric not feel quite at ease in his family home?

  He may feel he doesn't fit in or is overshadowed by his family name
• What does the juxtaposition of Eric being half shy and half assertive suggest about his character?

  It indicates that Eric is a complex character, possibly an enigma
• Why does the inspector leave Eric until last in the play?

  Because he is the character we know the least about until Act 3
• How does Eric's treatment of Eva Smith contrast with his shy demeanor?

  His abusive actions are shocking given his shy personality
• What does Eric's stance on capitalism and socialism reveal about his character?

  He shows socialist tendencies despite being raised as a capitalist
• What does Eric insist on when he meets Eva Smith?

  He insists on going into her home
• How does Eric's quote about being in a state where a chap easily turns nasty reflect on his character?

  It suggests he has a drinking problem and is familiar with aggressive behavior
• What does Eric's switch to third person when discussing his behavior indicate?

  It suggests he is distancing himself from his reprehensible actions
• What does Eric mean when he says "I threatened to make a row"?

  He implies he used emotional or physical intimidation to get his way
• How does Eric's attitude towards Eva Smith reflect the societal norms of 1912?

  It shows the normalization of heavy drinking and the abuse of women
• What does Eric's claim that "the money's not the important thing" reveal about his character?

  It shows he recognizes the significance of his actions over financial compensation
• How does Eric's character development compare to that of his parents?

  Eric shows the capacity for change and moral reflection, unlike his parents
• What does Eric's reaction to his mother's role in Eva's death suggest about his feelings towards her?

  He feels anger and contempt towards her for her actions
• How does Eric's passionate outburst about Eva's death affect the audience's perception of him?

  It may endear him to the audience as a character who shows genuine emotion
• What does Eric's statement about collective social responsibility imply about his character growth?

  He begins to recognize the importance of shared responsibility for societal issues
• How does Priestly portray Eric's character in relation to socialism by the end of the play?

  He presents Eric as a character who leans towards socialism and shows potential for redemption
• What are the key aspects of Eric's character development throughout the play?

  • Starts as half shy, half assertive
  • Exhibits socialist tendencies
  • Involved in abusive actions towards Eva
  • Shows capacity for moral reflection and change
  • Blames others for his actions initially
  • Ultimately recognizes collective social responsibility
• How does Eric's relationship with Eva Smith illustrate the themes of class and gender in the play?

  • Eric's actions reflect the abuse of power by the upper class
  • His treatment of Eva shows the exploitation of working-class women
  • Highlights societal norms regarding gender and class in 1912
  • Eric's eventual recognition of his wrongs contrasts with his initial behavior
• What is the significance of Eric's final outburst towards his mother?

  • Demonstrates his emotional turmoil and anger
  • Indicates a shift from passivity to assertiveness
  • Reflects his feelings of guilt and loss regarding Eva and their child
  • Highlights the theme of familial responsibility