Eric Birling Flashcards
Who is Eric Birling?
Eric Birling is one of the main characters in J.B. Priestley’s play ‘An Inspector Calls’.
What is Eric’s relationship to Sheila Birling?
Eric Birling is Sheila Birling’s younger brother.
True or False: Eric Birling is the oldest child in the Birling family.
False
What secret does Eric reveal about his actions towards Eva Smith?
Eric reveals that he had a sexual relationship with Eva Smith and got her pregnant.
Fill in the blank: Eric struggles with issues of __________ and __________.
responsibility; morality
What does Eric steal from his father?
Eric steals money from his father’s business to help Eva Smith.
How does Eric’s character change throughout the play?
Eric becomes more aware of his social responsibilities and shows remorse for his actions.
Multiple Choice: What is Eric’s attitude towards the Inspector?
He becomes increasingly confrontational and defensive.
What does Eric’s drinking problem symbolize?
It symbolizes his inability to cope with his guilt and the pressures of his privileged life.
True or False: Eric is completely confident and self-assured throughout the play.
False
What does Eric’s relationship with his parents reveal?
It reveals a strained dynamic, particularly with his father, Arthur Birling.
Fill in the blank: Eric’s actions are driven by his feelings of __________ and __________.
guilt; inadequacy
What event triggers the Inspector’s visit to the Birling family?
The suicide of Eva Smith triggers the Inspector’s visit.
What is the significance of Eric’s final statement about the Inspector?
He suggests that they should learn from the experience and take responsibility for their actions.
Multiple Choice: How does Eric react to the Inspector’s questioning?
He becomes increasingly agitated and defensive.
What does Eric’s character represent in the play?
Eric represents the younger generation’s potential for change and social responsibility.
True or False: Eric feels no remorse for his actions by the end of the play.
False
How does Eric’s behavior contrast with his father’s?
Eric shows a willingness to accept responsibility, while his father refuses to acknowledge his role in the tragedy.
Fill in the blank: Eric’s conflict with his father represents the theme of __________ between generations.
conflict
What does the Inspector’s presence force Eric to confront?
It forces Eric to confront his own actions and their consequences.
What does Eric’s character suggest about social class?
Eric’s character suggests that privilege does not exempt one from moral responsibility.
Multiple Choice: Which family member does Eric show the most empathy towards during the play?
He shows empathy towards Eva Smith.
True or False: Eric is portrayed as a completely villainous character.
False
What is the impact of Eric’s confession on the family dynamics?
It creates tension and reveals underlying issues within the family.
Fill in the blank: Eric’s journey throughout the play can be seen as a quest for __________.
redemption
