Edna

Question 1

Who is she?

Answer 1

The Birlings’ maid, Edna, may seem insignificant but she serves as a reminder of the Birlings’ wealth and the presence of the lower classes. She also introduces the Inspector and provides insight into the life of Eva Smith since they come from a similar background.

Question 2

Act 1

Answer 2

Firstly, it is Edna who shows Inspector Goole into the dining room in Act 1, announcing ‘an
inspector’s called’. Priestley clearly establishes this as a
significant moment. It symbolises that Priestley is giving a voice to the working classes, heralding
new ways of thinking with his socialist ideas. Edna, a working-class woman, ushers in the inspector,
who is about to challenge the values and beliefs held by the Birlings and Gerald.

Question 3

Act 3

Answer 3

when Mr Birling offers to answer the door himself late
into Act 3, Mrs Birling casually remarks ‘Edna’ll go. I asked her to wait up’. This intrusion into Edna’s
life demonstrates how the Birlings see Edna as merely an employee. They do not care that their
actions are impinging upon her wellbeing. Edna cannot sleep because the Birlings want her up to do more tasks for them, even though we can assume that typically she would have finished work by this
time.

Question 4

How is edna presented as?

Answer 4

silenced, submissive, part of the lower classes