An Inspector Calls - Sheila

Question 1

Whys: 1

Answer 1

Through the transformation of Sheila Birling, Priestley promotes hope for a more moral, socialist
future. He exhorts the post-war audience to follow her example: developing an attuned
conscience and standing up for what is right.

Question 2

Vehicle statement for Sheila’s progression throughout the play

Answer 2

Priestley uses the character of Sheila as a vehicle to expose the damaging impact capitalism
has on family life. Early on in the play, Sheila’s conceited and materialistic nature is presented
as symptomatic of a capitalist upbringing and the pernicious values of her parents. Sheila is
also a product of the Edwardian patriarchal society in which she has grown up, where she has
been taught that as a young woman her primary value is derived from her physical
appearance and marriageability. As such, she fosters deep routed insecurities, and learns to
view other women with a sense of rivalry and envy, which culminates in her vindictive
treatment towards Eva Smith. However, as the play progresses, Sheila takes accountability
for her actions and denounces the attitudes heralded by her parents. In their place, she begins
to appropriate the socialist values of the inspector, conveying Priestley’s hope for the younger
generation. Priestley exhorts the post war audience to be like Sheila: curious, receptive and
driven to create a much more egalitarian society predicated on welfare and civic
responsibility.