quotes Flashcards
asdfghjk (15 cards)
What is the main theme emphasized by the Inspector’s quote, ‘We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other.’?
Collective responsibility and socialism
This quote critiques individualism in capitalism, promoting a unified society.
In which act does the Inspector warn, ‘If men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish.’?
Act 3
This reflects Priestley’s belief in learning from history, especially regarding the consequences of ignoring social responsibility.
Fill in the blank: ‘It’s better to ask for the earth than to ______.’
take it
What does Mr. Birling refer to social reformers as in Act 1?
‘cranks’
This term reflects Birling’s dismissive attitude towards socialism and collective responsibility.
What dramatic irony is present in Mr. Birling’s claim that the Titanic is ‘Unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable.’?
The Titanic sank in 1912
This highlights Birling’s naivety and arrogance before WWI.
What does Birling’s statement, ‘A man has to mind his own business and look after himself and his own.’ illustrate?
Individualism in capitalism
This contrasts sharply with the Inspector’s message of collective responsibility.
What realization does Sheila Birling express when she states, ‘But these girls aren’t cheap labour – they’re people.’?
Her moral awakening and empathy towards workers
This contrasts with her father’s view of workers as commodities.
What does Sheila’s repetition of ‘never’ in ‘I’ll never, never do it again to anybody.’ signify?
Her sincere remorse and willingness to learn
This indicates a potential for change in the younger generation.
What does Sheila mean when she says, ‘You’re beginning to pretend now that nothing’s really happened at all.’?
Criticism of her parents’ denial
This highlights the moral divide between generations.
What does Mrs. Birling’s statement, ‘I did nothing I’m ashamed of.’ reveal about her character?
Her pride and lack of compassion
This reflects the moral blindness of the upper classes.
What prejudiced view does Mrs. Birling express with her comment, ‘Girls of that class—’?
Her snobbish attitude towards working-class women
This illustrates how class divisions were reinforced by such attitudes.
What does Gerald Croft’s description of Eva as ‘young and pretty and warm-hearted’ indicate?
Exploitation of women by the upper class
It reflects a patriarchal view and emphasizes class and gender imbalance.
What does Gerald mean by saying, ‘Everything’s all right now, Sheila. What about this ring?’?
His desire to return to normalcy
This indicates his resistance to confronting moral issues.
What emotional outburst does Eric Birling express with ‘You killed them both – damn you, damn you!’?
Blame directed at his mother for rejecting Eva
This reveals family tension and dysfunction.
What does Eric mean when he states, ‘We did her in all right.’?
Acceptance of shared guilt
This shows his moral growth and support for social responsibility.
