Eric Birling

Question 1

5 words to describe him?

Answer 1

Responsible.
Guilty
Selfish.
Privileged.
Reckless.

Question 2

What are his major points in the play?

Answer 2

1) Was sexually aggressive to Eva.
2) Got Eva pregnant.
3) Stole money of Mr Birling to give to Eva.
4)He feels guilty and responsible for Eva’s death.

Question 3

What is his significance?

Answer 3

He is a member of the younger generation and Priestley presents them to be more socially responsible then the older generation of Mr and Mrs Birling, therefore Priestley is showing hope that the sociecty will change.

Question 4

What are his beliefs?

Answer 4

1) He is not naïve and willing to challenge his father, therefore he beliefs his father views of society are wrong.
2) Eric shows empathy towards the workers at Mr Birling’s factory this shows that he believes in workers rights.

Question 5

What does he represent?

Answer 5

The upper class reckless men who are spoilt, selfish, indulgent and lack any clear sense of direction and purpose.

Question 6

How do the stage directions describe him?

Answer 6

‘Eric is in his early twenties, not quite at ease, half shy, half assertive.” - Suggests he is active but is presented as uncomfortable and unsure character

Question 7

5 significant quotes from Eric.

Answer 7

1. “Why shouldn’t they try for higher wages? We try for the highest possible prices”
2. “I was in that state when a chap easily turns nasty- and i threatened to make a row”
3. ” you killed her. she came to you to protect me- and you turned her away- yes, and you killed her- and the child she’d have had too- my child- you own grandchild”
4. “Is that why she committed suicide? When was this, father?
5. “Could I have a drink first?”