Eric

• How does Priestley use Eric to examine historical events?

  To examine the First World War
• What does Eric symbolize in the context of the younger generation?

  They act differently from their parents
• What does Eric's refusal to take responsibility indicate about his character?

  He distances himself from his actions
• What quotation illustrates Eric's feelings towards his parents?

  "I don’t blame you, but I’m ashamed of you"
• How does Eric describe his actions towards Eva?

  He claims he has no memory of it
• What does Eric's use of "a chap" signify about his attitude?

  He distances himself from his actions
• What crime does Eric commit in the play?

  He steals money from his father's business
• How does Eric justify his theft when confronted?

  He claims he intended to pay it back
• What does Priestley suggest about Eric's character through his actions?

  He should not be trusted
• What does Eric symbolize in relation to capitalism?

  He represents capitalism as theft
• How does Priestley view the relationship between capitalism and wealth distribution?

  Capitalism leads to unequal wealth distribution
• What does Eric's theft of £50 represent in terms of labor value?

  It represents 40 weeks of earnings
• How does Eric's claim about giving money to Eva reflect on his character?

  It suggests he kept most for himself
• What does Priestley imply about the upper classes and their drinking habits?

  They use alcohol constantly
• How does Eric's drunkenness affect his interactions in the play?

  It impacts his ability to learn lessons
• What does Eva's second death symbolize?

  The Second World War
• How does Priestley view the lessons from the First World War?

  They were not learned by society
• What does Eric's character reveal about the upper-class youth's response to war?

  They often fail to change their behavior
• How does Priestley connect capitalism to the First World War?

  Capitalism exploits workers for profit
• What does Eric's potential fate in the war symbolize?

  The loss of upper-class youth to war
• How does Priestley's background influence his portrayal of Eric?

  He came from a normal background
• What does Eric's education at Cambridge represent in the context of the play?

  It reflects upper-class hedonism
• What is the significance of Eric's drunken behavior in the play?

  It highlights his lack of social responsibility
• How does Eric's character challenge traditional views of the upper class?

  He embodies irresponsibility and exploitation
• What must students do to achieve top marks when discussing Eric?

  Discuss how he represents capitalism as theft