Quotes

• Quote 1

  • “I know I’m to blame – and I’m desperately sorry.”
  • Sheila acknowledges her role in getting Eva Smith fired from her job at Milwards after having her dismissed for being jealous of her.
  • Sheila immediately shows remorse for her actions. Unlike her parents, she doesn't deflect blame. This willingness to take responsibility is a key moment in her character arc and a contrast to the older characters' inability to do the same.
• Quote 2

  • “I’m not a child, don’t forget. I’ve had to go through with this, and I’m ashamed of it.”
  • Sheila says this to her parents when they try to dismiss the Inspector’s questioning, showing that she is becoming more mature and self-aware.
  • This quote reflects Sheila’s growing maturity. She rejects the patronizing attitude of her parents and recognizes the gravity of the situation. She also shows that she is beginning to take ownership of her actions, unlike her parents who are still in denial.
• Quote 3

  • “I was really sorry for her. But at the same time I felt she was a bit of a fool.”
  • Sheila talks about her initial reaction to Eva Smith’s situation before she understood the full extent of the injustice.
  • Sheila’s mixed feelings reflect her initial immaturity and her lack of understanding about the struggles of the working class. However, as the play progresses, she becomes more empathetic, realizing the unfairness of her previous thoughts.
• Quote 4

  • “I’ll never, never do it again to anybody.”
  • After realizing the impact of her actions, Sheila expresses her deep regret and vows not to repeat her mistakes.
  • This statement shows Sheila’s remorse and her genuine desire to change. Unlike her parents, she is able to learn from her mistakes and grow, symbolizing the potential for a more socially conscious future generation.
• Quote 5

  • “It’s you two who are being childish – trying not to face the facts.”
  • Sheila says this to her parents when they try to dismiss the situation or minimize their involvement in Eva’s death.
  • This shows Sheila’s increasing frustration with her parents’ refusal to accept responsibility. She now sees them as childish and unwilling to grow, a significant contrast to her own growth throughout the play.
• Quote 6

  • “We all helped to kill her.”
  • Sheila acknowledges that every member of the family, including herself, played a part in Eva’s death, and she refuses to distance herself from the responsibility.
  • This quote marks Sheila’s full realization of her role in the chain of events leading to Eva’s demise. It shows her commitment to taking responsibility, which sets her apart from the older generation, particularly her parents, who are still in denial.