Eric Birling Flashcards
Eric quote 1
‘Eric is in his early twenties, not quite at ease, half shy, half assertive.’
immediately marks him as part of the younger generation, highlighting a sense of inner conflict and uncertainty. His awkwardness suggests a lack of confidence, possibly hinting at guilt or a hidden secret. This discomfort acts as subtle foreshadowing of his later revelations, suggesting that beneath his hesitant exterior lies a deeper moral struggle.
Eric quote 2
“ you said yourself she was a good worker”
the direct address of “you” highlights how Eric is directly critiquing his father’s dehumanisation of his workers simultaneously combating his capitalists views
Eric quote 3
“I was in that state when a chap easily turns nasty.”
Eric’s vague phrasing “that state” and third-person “a chap” create emotional distance, showing his struggle to fully admit the severity of his actions. The euphemism “turns nasty” masks the reality of his aggression, reflecting deep shame and guilt.
Priestley uses this to expose how toxic masculinity and alcohol-fuelled entitlement go unchecked among upper-class men.
Eric quote 4
“I didn’t even remember – that’s the hellish thing.”- Act 3
The emotive word “hellish” evokes guilt and inner torment, suggesting Eric feels morally condemned. The dash breaks the sentence, mirroring his distress and disjointed thoughts, showing deep shame. His admission reveals growing responsibility, contrasting with others who deflect blame.
Eric Quote 5
Eric’s line, “You’re beginning to pretend now that nothing’s really happened at all. And I can’t see it like that. The girl’s still dead, isn’t she?”
shows his rejection of his parents’ denial and his refusal to forget the moral consequences of their actions. His response reflects how deeply the experience has affected him, demonstrating emotional maturity and a strong sense of responsibility.
