AIC quotes

• “We don’t live alone. We are all members of one body. We are responsible for each other.”


  Said by the inspector. Reflects the theme of social responsibility by emphasising the interconnectedness of individuals in society and the importance of considering of one’s actions on another’s.
• “These girls aren’t cheap labour— they’re people.”


  Said by Sheila. Highlights the theme of social class and the treatment of individuals as commodities by those in positions of power. It signifies Sheila’s growing awareness of social responsibility and empathy for the lower class.
• “It’s better to ask for the earth than to take it.”


  Said by the Inspector. Conveys the idea that it’s more honourable to seek something through legitimate means rather than taking it by force or exploitation. Reflects the theme of social responsibility and ethical conduct.
• ”As if we were all mixed up together like bees in a hive— community and all that nonsense.”


  Said by Mr Birling. He dismisses the idea of community and and reflects his selfish, individualistic outlook, contrasting with the plays theme of social responsibility and interconnectedness.
• “I did nothing I’m ashamed of. I blame the young man. He ought to be dealt with very severely.”


  Said by Mrs Birling. Shows her refusal to acknowledge her own responsibility and her attempt to shift blame onto others. It reflects her as a selfish and unsympathetic character.
• “You’re not the kind of father a chap can go to when he’s in trouble.” 


  Said by Eric. Illustrates Eric’s strained relationship with Mr Birling.
• ”Why shouldn’t they try for for higher wages? We try for the highest possible prices.”


  Said by Eric. Showcases Eric’s empathy and awareness of social injustice, emphasising his departure from his parents capitalist views. ‘We’ implies he still sees himself as part of the family despite that.
• “We’re respectable citizens and not criminals.”


  Said by Gerald. Reflects his dismissive attitudes towards the mistreatment of Daisy/Eva, showing his entitlement and privilege. Themes of social class.
• “I’m sorry, Daddy, actually I was listening.”


  Said by Sheila. Reflects Sheilas childish, sheltered nature and want to please her parents. Themes of gender.
• “She was young and pretty and warm-hearted— and intensely grateful. I became at one the most important person in her life.”


  Said by Gerald. Highlights Daisy/Eva’s vulnerability and how Gerald took advantage of it, portraying his sense of power and importance.
• “I can’t accept any responsibility.”


  Said by Mr Birling. Argues that his involvement with Eva Smith was so small and unimportant it could not have lead to her death. Shows upper class feelings of denial and refusal to acknowledge the consequences of their actions.
• “A man has to make his own way— has to look after himself— and his family too.”


  Said by Mr Birling. Highlights selfish capitalist views. Upper class is encouraged to only think about themselves and no one else in society.
• “Well, it is my duty to keep labour costs down, and if I’d agreed to this demand for a new rate we’d have added about twelve per cent to our labour costs.”


  Said by Mr Birling. Mr Birling is used to show the capitalist viewpoint during the play. His primary aim is to success in business, so he cares more about money than people. Highlights the sefishness of capitalism— capitalism was designed to reward the business owners rather than those doing the work.