eric - key quotes Flashcards
[Not quite at ease, half shy, half assertive]. what does this stage direction show
Represents cracks in family
Eric is immediately described as someone who is uncomfortable as part of the Birling family. This separates him from them straight away. He seems to be shy and unsure around his own family, which suggests there are cracks in their family relationships straight away.
Treated like a child
His parents think of him as a child, and do not take him seriously - he feels like he cannot be himself around them. This adds to the idea that upper-class families present fake images to protect their reputations.
‘Why shouldn’t they try for higher wages?’ what does this quote show
Socially aware and socialist
Eric is the first one to suggest that lower-class people should be treated, better (despite him treating Eva so poorly). It is obvious why Eric and his parents do not share a close relationship -
their personalities are so different, and Eric obviously leans more towards socialism than capitalism. This could be why he is so uncomfortable being in their company. He seems to be tired of their judgements around lower-class people and seems to be the most socially aware member of the family at the start of the play.
Goes against social norms
He openly contradicts his father in front of people - a serious social faux pas (mistake or not polite) at this time.
‘I don’t give a damn’.” what does this quote show
Breaking point
Eric openly, and loudly, dismisses his father in front of his entire family and Gerald. He shows that he does not respect his father at all, which leaves the audience wondering what their relationship will be like after the play finishes.
Eric is tired of his parents taking no responsibility for their actions and is fed up of Mr Birling’s obsession with his knighthood and himself. This line shows the breaking point in Eric’s relationship with his parents.
