AIC Flashcards
(38 cards)
What does the stage direction ‘not quite at ease, half shy, half assertive’ reveal about Eric?
It highlights his internal conflict and awkwardness, suggesting discomfort in his own skin and family dynamic.
This indicates a deeper psychological struggle within the character.
What does the phrase ‘(perhaps attempting to drown his sorrows)’ imply about Eric’s character?
It hints at his drinking habit as a means to escape underlying unhappiness or guilt.
This suggests a coping mechanism for Eric’s emotional turmoil.
What does Eric question with the quote ‘Why shouldn’t they try for higher wages?’?
He questions his father’s capitalist views, showing a nascent sense of social justice and empathy for the working class.
This reflects Eric’s developing awareness of social issues.
How does Eric’s statement ‘you said yourself she was a good worker’ function in his argument?
It uses his father’s words to advocate for Eva Smith’s fair treatment, demonstrating his moral development.
This highlights Eric’s attempt to reason with his father’s ideology.
What does the line ‘[not too rudely] Well, don’t do any. We’ll drink to their health and have done with it.’ indicate about Eric’s feelings?
It shows his discomfort with the superficiality of Sheila’s engagement and his unease with the situation.
This reveals his struggle against the transactional nature of his family’s interactions.
How does Priestley characterize Eric’s morality through stage directions?
Priestley’s use of ‘involuntarily’ signifies Eric’s genuine emotional reaction, portraying him as inherently moral despite his actions.
This emphasizes the complexity of Eric’s character and his emotional depth.
What does the quote ‘There are millions and millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths’ signify?
It emphasizes that Eva represents countless working-class individuals, highlighting the universality of their suffering.
This quote from the Inspector underscores the scale of the social problem affecting the working class.
What is the significance of the phrase ‘died in misery and agony - hating life’?
It confronts the Birlings with the harsh reality of Eva’s suffering and evokes empathy from the audience.
The graphic adjectives are intended to make the audience reflect on the consequences of their actions.
What does the name ‘Renton’ suggest about Eva’s situation?
‘Renton’ is suggested to be derived from ‘rent,’ a euphemism for prostitution, indicating her forced circumstances.
This change of name signifies her struggle for survival.
How does Gerald describe Eva/Daisy?
He describes her as ‘young and fresh and charming and altogether out of place down there.’
The term ‘fresh’ implies sexual desire, while ‘out of place’ hints at her innocence.
What do the names Eva Smith and Daisy Renton represent?
Eva Smith represents a typical working-class woman, while Daisy Renton symbolizes her attempt to escape her circumstances and highlights her exploitation.
The duality of her names reflects her identity and struggles.
How is Gerald initially described?
An attractive chap about thirty, rather too manly to be a dandy but very much the easy well-bred young man-about-town
This establishes him as handsome, upper-class, and confident, hinting at potential superficiality.
What does Gerald’s description of Eva Smith reveal?
She was pretty - soft brown hair and big dark eyes
The pause suggests a genuine emotional reaction, but emphasizes that his attraction is largely based on her physical appearance.
What do the phrases ‘I insisted on a parting gift’ and ‘I made her take some money’ indicate?
Gerald’s view of his relationship with Eva as transactional
They highlight his power and inability to understand Eva’s emotional needs.
What do the quotes ‘You couldn’t have done anything else’ and ‘Yes I think you were justified in getting Eva sacked’ reveal about Gerald?
His alignment with Mr. Birling’s capitalist views
He defends Mr. Birling’s actions, showing belief in maintaining social hierarchy.
What does Gerald’s question ‘[where did you get] the idea that I did know her?’ imply?
His initial defensive reaction to the Inspector’s questioning
It suggests he is trying to hide his involvement and avoid responsibility.
What does the term ‘portentous’ suggest about Mr. Birling?
It suggests he is pompous and self-important
This gives the audience an immediate negative impression of his character.
What does Mr. Birling say about the inevitability of war?
‘Fiddlesticks!’
This dismissal creates dramatic irony, as the audience knows war is imminent.
What does Mr. Birling’s quote about minding one’s own business signify?
His individualistic, capitalist philosophy
He believes in personal responsibility, contrasting with the Inspector’s social responsibility message.
What does Mr. Birling mean by ‘It’s my duty to keep labour costs down’?
It reveals his ruthless approach to business
He views workers merely as a means to an end.
How does Mr. Birling describe the concept of community?
He refers to it as ‘nonsense’ and compares it to ‘bees in a hive’
This simile belittles socialist ideas.
What is the significance of Mr. Birling mentioning his past titles?
He uses them to intimidate and impress the Inspector
This reveals his insecurity and belief in the power of social status.
about fifty, a rather cold woman
Significance: This is Priestley’s initial stage direction. The word ‘cold’ immediately establishes Mrs. Birling as unsympathetic and detached, highlighting her lack of warmth and empathy.
I won’t believe it
Significance: This quote shows Mrs. Birling’s denial and refusal to accept responsibility for her part in Eva’s death. It demonstrates her stubbornness and unwillingness to change.
