Age Flashcards
How is the theme of age shown in the play
Sheila and Eric’s response to Eva’s death
Mr and Mrs Birling’s response to Eva’s death
how the older characters perceive the younger ones
Age represented by Sheila and Eric
Eric stands up to his parents when it becomes clear that they will not take responsibilty.
“You’re beginning to pretend now that nothing’s really happened at all.”
Eric sees that his parents are trying to ‘pretend’ that nothing happened when it is suggested that the Inspector was not real. He and Sheila, the younger characters, still feel responsible.
Age represented by Mr and Mrs Birling
Mrs Birling explains her decision to turn away Eva when she came to her for help.
“So I was perfectly justified in advising my committee not to allow her claim for assistance.”
Despite hearing about all the misfortune that Eva Smith has suffered, Mrs Birling is unmoved and stubbornly stands by her decision to turn Eva away.
Age represented by Older vs Younger generation
Mr Birling turns on his son Eric and nearly attacks him physically
“Why, you hysterical young fool - get back - or I’ll -“
Mr Birling implies here that Eric is a ‘fool’ because he is young. Ironically, it is the older Arthur who nearly resorts to physical violence.
