"Rent"

• Analysis

  The use of the term "rent" in Eva’s alias, "Daisy Renton," reflects the transactional and exploitative nature of her relationship with Gerald. Highlighting Eva's awareness of her economic dependency and Gerald's purely exploitative intentions. Priestley explicitly demonstrates this exploitation when Gerald houses her in a flat he does not pay for, effectively making Eva’s time a form of unpaid "rent."This harsh economic and sexual compromise forces Eva to confront the stark reality of her dehumanisation. 
• Alternative interpretation

  Alternatively, "rent" can be seen as a metaphor for how society commodifies women, reducing them to disposable objects of male pleasure. suggesting that Eva, like a daisy, is used and discarded by Gerald. Her alias reflects her internal struggle, as she aspires to innocence ("daisy") while enduring the self-disgust caused by her economic vulnerability. Priestley critiques not only Gerald's actions but also the societal norms that force women like Eva into such compromises.
• Themes

  Sexual Exploitation: Gerald’s treatment of Eva exemplifies the societal acceptance of transactional relationships, where women are objectified and used for male convenience.

  Patriarchy and Female Oppression: The text reveals how society pressures women to accept infidelity and exploitation under the guise of love

  Economic Vulnerability: Eva’s reliance on Gerald stems from her lack of employment and independence, emphasizing Priestley's critique of a system that leaves women dependent on men.
• Writers intention

  Priestley uses Eva’s alias and her tragic relationship with Gerald to critique the systemic exploitation of women in patriarchal and capitalist societies. By juxtaposing Eva’s economic and sexual compromises with Sheila’s situation, Priestley draws attention to the universality of female oppression, as Eva represents all women.His intention is to inspire his female audience to demand independence and reject societal norms that force them into exploitative relationships, promoting a socialist vision of gender equality and economic empowerment.