sheila

• Sheila's childish language at the start of the play reflects her naivety and slightly dependent nature

  Yes, go on, mummy
• Sheila insults Eric to assert her position as the more responsible, mature sibling

  Don't be an ass, Eric
• Sheila makes the assumption that Eva's suicide must have been as a result of her own actions, ironically foreshadowing events that come to light later in the play

  destroying herself so horribly
• Sheila is reluctant to know the details, believing that ignorance is bliss and attempting to shield herself from reality

  I wish you hadn't told me
• Sheila realises that the Inspector believes the Birlings have contributed to Eva's death

  He says it's one of us now
• Sheila's first moment of realisation as she highlights that her Father is referring to his workers as commodities, not human beings with feelings

  But these girls aren't cheap labour - they're people
• Sheila worries about the impact of her behaviour as a result of her 'furious temper'

  Did it make much difference to her?
• Sheila's question to the Inspector marks her worst fears: that she contributed to the helplessness that Eva felt which eventually drove her to kill herself.

  So I'm really responsible?
• Sheila states to Gerald that by being honest, she is attempting to repent for her mistakes

  At least, I'm trying to tell the truth
• As Sheila tells the story of the day at Millwalls, she hints that Eva's beauty forced her into not being able to pity the girl

  I couldn't be sorry for her
• Sheila warns the rest of the family that the Inspector has further knowledge than they think, hinting at her perceptive nature

  And I hate to think how much he knows that we don't know yet. You'll see. You'll see
• Sheila creates an intelligent metaphor that demonstrates the power of truth

  talked about building up a wall that's sure to be knocked flat.
• Sheila's abrupt conclusion implicates every character in their involvement with Eva's death

  between us, we drove that girl to commit suicide
• Sheila is concerned at the lack of remorse demonstrated by her parents after they believe the Inspector to be a hoax

  the point is that you don't seem to have learnt anything
• Sheila emphasises the gravity of the Inspector's presence, hinting that she has learned about the cncept or guilt and consequences of actions

  I remember what he said, how he looked and how he made me feel.