Eva Smith and class

Question 1

What does Eva Smith symbolise?

Answer 1

The exploitation of all working class people in a capitalist society

Question 2

What kind of person was Eva?

Answer 2

JBP writes Eva as an honourable and respectful person to show the Birlings that working class people are good humans as well. E.G she refuses to take stolen money from Gerald.

Question 3

Why are Eva’s class and gender significant?

Answer 3

Cass = Birling does not pay her enough
Gender = how Eric and Gerald exploit her sexually

Question 4

What is the role of Edna in the play

Answer 4

Edna is the Birling’s maid, a voiceless character made to server the Birling’s. this shows that the Birling’s expect Eva to be the same way as she is of the same class.