An Inspector Calls - Eva

Question 1

Whys: 1

Answer 1

Through the dramatic device of the photograph and the doubling of names, Priestley presents
Eva Smith as an amalgam of working class women, suggesting that far from an isolated case
involving one family, the exploitation and mistreatment of the working class is a common
occurrence within Edwardian society.

Question 2

Whys: 2

Answer 2

Through the gradual exposition of the downfall of Eva/Daisy Priestley is able to demonstrate to
his audience that our actions, no matter how seemingly small or insignificant, will impact others

Question 3

What adjectives describe Eva?

Answer 3

Vulnerable
Dignified
Abuse

Question 4

“A lively good-looking girl”

Answer 4

Act 1**
She is objectified from the start. Her appearance becomes the basis for how others treat her.

Question 5

“She’d had a lot to say – far too much”

Answer 5

Act 1**
Birling punishes her for speaking up. Shows class-based suppression of voice.

Question 6

“Girls of that class—”

Answer 6

Act 2**
Mrs Birling reduces her to a stereotype, revealing prejudice and dehumanisation

Question 7

“She wasn’t pretty when I saw her today.”

Answer 7

Act 1 (Inspector)**
Strips away idealisation, forcing the Birlings to confront the human cost of their actions.