Analysis

• Who does Sybil Burling symbolize in the play?

  The uncaring nature of capitalism
• What does Sybil Burling refuse to do in the play?

  Accept blame for her actions
• How does Priestley use Sybil Burling to critique capitalism?

  She symbolizes the lack of sympathy for the poor
• What deadly sin does Sybil Burling symbolize?

  Pride
• What are morality plays and their purpose?

  • Christian plays from the Middle Ages
  • Designed to teach moral lessons
  • Helped illiterate populations learn morality
• What social class does Sybil Burling belong to?

  Upper class
• How does Priestley portray Sybil's relationship with her husband?

  She is socially superior to him
• What does Sybil's dismissal of Eva's request for help signify?

  Her class prejudice and lack of empathy
• Why does Priestley place Sybil last in the list of characters related to Eva?

  To suggest she is most responsible for Eva's fate
• What does Sybil Burling's name reference?

  The Greek myth of the Sibyls
• How does Priestley use irony in Sybil's character?

  She is named after a prophet but is blind
• What does Sybil's willful blindness represent in the play?

  Her refusal to acknowledge societal issues
• How does Sybil react when confronted with Eric's relationship with Eva?

  She refuses to believe it
• What societal issue does Priestley highlight through Sybil's expectations of Sheila?

  The normalization of male infidelity
• How does Priestley depict Sybil as a victim of society?

  She is conditioned to accept male behavior
• What ultimately drives Eva to despair according to the play?

  The exploitation by Gerald and Eric
• What does the welfare state aim to provide?

  Financial and housing support for citizens
• How does Priestley contrast the welfare state with charity in the play?

  Welfare state provides unbiased support
• What does Sybil's refusal to feel guilt signify?

  Her ultimate prejudice against the poor
• How does Priestley suggest society should change?

  By creating a welfare state for all
• What are the implications of Sybil Burling's actions in the context of the play?

  • Represents the failure of charity
  • Highlights class prejudice
  • Critiques the patriarchal society
  • Suggests need for systemic change
• What does Priestley want to change through his play?

  Societal attitudes towards the poor
• How does Sybil's character reflect the attitudes of her time?

  She embodies the prejudices of the upper class
• What does Priestley imply about the role of women in a patriarchal society through Sybil?

  They are conditioned to accept injustice
• What is the significance of Sybil's lack of guilt regarding her grandchild's death?

  It highlights her moral blindness
• How does Priestley connect Sybil Burling to the concept of the welfare state?

  • Sybil represents the last resort for the poor
  • Critiques reliance on charity for welfare
  • Advocates for a systemic solution to poverty
  • Highlights the need for unbiased support