Eric Birling - Analysis Flashcards
“yes, i know - but still” what does this show
Eric disagrees with his father’s views on war. Pauses show his lack of confidence to articulate his views, his father intimidates him and he knows what happens when someone speaks against him
“why shouldn’t they try for higher wages?” what does this show
Eric cares for poorer people through Eva, much more mature than his father, naive as he doesn’t get the business world
“she wasn’t the usual sort” what does this show
stereotypes women - been there before, objectifies her. Happy to use and abuse women at his pleasure
“i was in that state when a chap easily turns nasty” what does this show
shows his forceful nature towards women, prepared to use physical violence, suggests it’s normal to use prostitutes against their will - ‘justifying’ his actions
“i insisted on giving her enough money to keep her going” what does this show
he still cares about Eva. Unlike Gerald who kept her for his personal pleasure
“you’re not the kind of father a chap could go to when he’s in trouble” what does this show
makes us realise how detatched Eric is from his family, poor parenting could’ve linked to his alcohol problem
“(nearly at breaking point) then - you killed her” what does this show
tries to get his mother to understand her responsibility, wants to blame someone else so he doesn’t feel as guilty
“i’m ashamed of you as well - yes, both of you” what does this show
more mature than his father, genuinely cared for Eva
