Conflict Flashcards
P1
There is conflict between Eric and Sheila and Mr Birling and Mrs Birling. Old vs Young (Capitalism vs Socialism) - Mr and Mrs Birling and firmly in their ways as capitalists and won’t budge or even think about change while Eric and Sheila both take responsibility for their actions and repent and try to change for the better. This creates a ridge in the Birling family’s relationships.
P2
Priestley explores how conflict can be created through lies. In the Birling Family (archetypal upper class family) and the Inspector. Lies - Gerald telling Sheila that he was busy but left out the fact that he had an affair. Eric being a hard drinker but Mrs Birling not even knowing such a thing whereas Sheila and Gerald could clearly see that. Eric stealing money to try and help Eva Smith caused conflict with his father. Mr Birling tries to lie that he doesn’t know Eva Smith. Inspector lies about being a real inspector - the moment older Birlings find out, they dismiss the inspector’s lesson while the younger Birlings take it to heart. Priestley did this to show the fragility of capitalism and show how it can be easily divided.
P3
Sexism - Priestley tries to change the current family structure with the wife being obedient and silent and the father being the head of the family. He wanted women to also have a say which is what happens through Sheila who after being infantalized throughout the whole play, at the end, finally makes her own decisions and matures. This causes a conflict between Mrs Birling and Sheila. Mrs Birling has grown up in the olden days so she had to sacrifice even her own happiness for the good of her husband.
P4
Inspector Goole tries to bring about social change more lasting change but Birling tries to solve everything with money which is only short term.
