Age

• "Mother i think that was cruel and vile"-Sheila


  Shows how Sheila matures. She contradicts societal expectations of obeying her parents' words.
• "You're all beginning to pretend that nothing really happened"-Eric


  Shows Eric still feels responsible even when his parents are suggesting the inspector wasn't real. Priestley tries to show there is the hope of change.
• "Why you hysterical young fool, get back or I'll..."-Mr Birling


  Mr B implies Eric is stupid because he is young, ironically Mr B threatens to turn to physical violence.
• "I was perfectly justified in advising my committee not to allow her claim for assistance"-Mrs Birling


  Despite hearing all the misfortune Eva Smith has suffered Mrs B is unmoved and stubbornly refuses to help her
• The older generations are more concerned with protecting their social positions and continues to perceive themselves as superior members of the community.

  WHEREAS the younger generation is used to demonstrate their capacity for change and acceptance of social responsibility
• Priestley uses differences in age to show hope for change in the future and to show the audience that there is still time to change and save our society