Eric Flashcards
How is Eric presented?
As a vehicle to place focus on the younger generation’s capacity to change through their adoption of social responsibility.
How is this done?
Despite his misdemeanours in the treatment of Eva, Eric is able to recognise value of Ins’s words, in turn rejecting capitalist ideologies of parents to favour socialist approach.
Why has Priestley done this?
To act as a call to arms for younger people to realise the power they possess in making positive change in society.
In the opening of the play…
“not quite at ease, half shy, half assertive” (ultimately be faced with making decision)
“she’s got a nasty temper sometimes” (teases Sh at his big age, progress need to be made over play)
“(involuntarily) My God!” (genuine emotional reaction unlike father)
“Why shouldn’t they try for higher wages?” (defiant tone)
Shows signs of change however does not; unaware of personal involvement
As the play progresses…
“only a youngster — silly and wild and drinking too much” (Mrs B presents in unfavourable light)
“said something […] when he was drunk, that gave her the idea that it wasn’t his money” (alcoholism & stolen money drops audience’s estimations — using money as a way out, bringing attention to the need to let go of capitalist lifestyles)
“Some drunken young idler” (unfavourable impression prior to acceptance of involvement)
At the close of the play…
“in that stage where a chap easily turns nasty”
“hate these fat old tarts round the town’
“(unhappily) My God — I’m not likely to forget”
“No, Shiela’s right. It doesn’t”
“The fact remains that I did what I did”
From losing audience’s respect to aligning with Inspector, acts as a symbol of promise of change
