Eric Birling

• Eric Birling's Character Traits

  • A self-made man who has built his business empire through hard work and determination.
  • A bit arrogant and dismissive of others.
  • Looks down on those below him in society.
  • Is resistant to change and tradition-bound.
• Eric's Treatment of Daisy


  • He uses Daisy in a way that is similar to how he uses other people: for his own pleasure and benefit.
  • He takes advantage of her naivety and vulnerability.
  • He isn't concerned with her feelings or well-being.
  • He treats her as an object, not a person.
• Eric's Quote on Responsibility

  "Who is responsible?" "I am. And that's all there is to it." This quote shows Eric's sense of entitlement and refusal to take responsibility for his actions.
• Eric's Reaction to Death


  • He is shaken but ultimately unaffected by Sybil's death.
  • He is more concerned with his reputation and business than with Sybil's well-being or future.
  • He lacks empathy and compassion for those affected by Sybil's death.
• Inspector's Question to Eric


  • "Do you have to have power to feel important?" This question highlights Eric's need for power and control and his lack of understanding about what truly makes a person important.
• "Who is responsible? I am. And that's all there is to it."


  The Inspector reveals the Inspector's identity, and Eric's refusal to take responsibility for his actions is revealed. This quote shows Eric's sense of entitlement and refusal to acknowledge his role in Sybil's death. (Analysis of Eric's Character Traits)
• "I never liked her. I never thought she was good enough for me."


  This quote reveals Eric's true feelings about his daughter-in-law, Sybil Birling, and shows how he treats her as an inferior. It highlights his lack of empathy and compassion. (Analysis of Eric's Treatment of Sybil)
• "Ah, it's a foul trick to spring all this on me like this!"


  Eric's reaction to the Inspector's revelation shows his discomfort and need for control. He uses this quote to try to deflect the blame and assert his power. (Analysis of Eric's Power and Control)
• "I don't want any more of this rot. I've had a bit too much of it already tonight."


  This quote shows Eric's dismissive and arrogant attitude towards the Inspector's questions. It highlights his lack of respect for others and his refusal to engage with the truth. (Analysis of Eric's Arrogance)
• "I'm a busy man, Inspector. I haven't got all night."


  This quote shows Eric's sense of importance and his lack of patience. He is more concerned with his own schedule than with the Inspector's investigation. (Analysis of Eric's Sense of Importance)
• "You're not going to get away with this, Inspector. You're not going to make me look a fool."


  This quote reveals Eric's fear of being exposed and his desire to maintain his reputation. He is willing to do whatever it takes to avoid being embarrassed. (Analysis of Eric's Fear of Exposure)