Eva Smith quotes analysis

• 'There are millions...


  The name 'smith' has its roots in the working class, originating from 'blacksmith', and arguably Priestley does this to demonstrate the her class is a fundamental part of her orgins and identity, something she can't escape. Priestley uses the common name 'John Smith' to symbolise the universality of the suffering of the working classes, largely forgotten and neglected by the wealthy
• 'as if a girl...


  Mrs Birling claims that 'a girl of that sort would ever refuse money', and she assumes that due to her lower class origin, she is inherently greedy. Despite this, Eva is presented as a moral force, who never take stolen money and won't marry Eric, just for his wealth. This is in contrast to Eric, who steals money, and the Birlings, who arrange Shelia's marriage for financial gain; in the name of 'lower costs and higher prices'.
• 'Renton'

  Arguably, the name 'Renton' is derived from the verb 'to rent', a euphemism for prostitution in the early 20th century. Priestley uses this change in name to mark Eva being forced to change her approach to surviving in a hostile society. She can no longer survive by working and therefore she must go against her own moral principles to survive, engaging in prostitution
• 'young and fresh...


  The adjective 'fresh' bears connotations of desire and fertility, demonstrating that Gerald views her with sexual intent from the start, describing her like food, and example of misogynistic objectification. Priestley also includes connotations of purity as she is 'out of place' which is possibly a euphemism for her still being a virgin
• 'died in misery...


  After Shelia's confession the Inspector reminds here that Eva 'died in misery and agony - hating life'. The graphic adjectives 'misery and agony' encourage the audience to empathise with Eva, visualising the pain and suffering she endured at the hands of the Birlings. Priestley intensifies Shelia's guilt as her enjoyment of life is at the hands of others