Sheila Birling Flashcards
(8 cards)
“I felt rotten about it at the time.”
(Responsibility)
Priestley’s use of the informal adjective “rotten” demonstrates Sheila’s lack of maturity in vocabulary.
However, she also shows remorse for her actions, which she instantly knew was wrong. Priestley conveying a message that maturity is proportional to the level of social responsibility you feel, rather than using formal vocabulary.
“I’ll never, never do it again to anybody”
(Responsibility)
Repetition of “never” emphasizes the depth of her regret. It shows she’s not just apologizing casually she’s truly shocked by her own behavior and wants to make it clear that she’s changed.
“Never” is an absolute word which suggests total rejection of her past behaviour.
“Its you two who are being childish - trying not to face the facts”
(Old v young)
Priestley uses irony to expose the lack of responsibility and immaturity of Mr and Mrs Birling, as Sheila (the child) labels her parents as “childish”.
“No not yet. it’s too soon. i must think”
Pivotal moment where Sheila must either accept or reject Gerald and the capitalist individualism he stands for.
The use of the imperative “Must” is a direct message from Priestley to the audience - to think for themselves.
“Now i really feel engaged”
(Materialism)
The phrase “really feel” adds a layer of emotional superficiality.
“Really” intensifies the emotion, but ironically, it shows how her emotions are tied to the ring, rather than her relationship with Gerald.
Priestley may be criticising how middle-class women were taught to value symbols of status over genuine emotional connection.
“Is it the one you wanted me to have?”
(Materialism)
It suggests Sheila’s identity and choices are shaped by male authority — she’s aware that Gerald, not her, has made the final decision.
There’s also an undercurrent of irony or self-awareness — it could be interpreted as slightly pointed or sarcastic, depending on how it’s delivered.
Sheila might already sense that Gerald controls more than just the ring — perhaps even the relationship itself.
“…these girls aren’t cheap labour - they’re people”
(Capitalism v Socialism)
The phrase “these girls” shows how Eva is grouped with others – it’s slightly impersonal, yet Sheila’s tone is protective.
It suggests she’s starting to recognise the shared struggle of working-class women.
The contrast between “cheap labour” and “people” creates a powerful juxtaposition. Profit v People.
“impertinent is such a silly word”
(Capitalism v Socialism)
Has developed in maturityand rejects her mother’s use of the formal adjective “impertinent” to criticise Eva as “such a silly word”.
