Sheila Birling Flashcards
write an overview of sheila’s character
Sheila Birling is a key character in An Inspector Calls because she changes the most. At first, she is childish and materialistic, reflecting her wealthy, upper-class background. However, as the play progresses, she matures, taking responsibility for her actions and understanding the Inspector’s purpose. Unlike her parents, she accepts her role in Eva Smith’s death and challenges their refusal to change. Sheila symbolises hope and Priestley’s socialist message, showing that the younger generation can learn, grow, and create a better society.
Look mummy-isn’t it a beauty
At the start of An Inspector Calls, Sheila Birling is presented as immature and superficial, but Priestley subtly hints that she is capable of change. One key quote is when Sheila says, “Look – Mummy – isn’t it a beauty?” after receiving her engagement ring. The use of the noun “Mummy” highlights her childlike nature, suggesting she is still dependent on her parents and hasn’t fully matured. The exclamation and focus on the ring’s appearance show her materialism and obsession with wealth, which reflects the values of the upper class at the time. Priestley uses this to show how Sheila begins as a stereotypical upper-class young woman, interested in appearances and social status
I’m sorry daddy-actually I was listening
In An Inspector Calls, Sheila Birling’s quote, “I’m sorry, Daddy—actually I was listening,” is a pivotal moment that reveals her growing independence and moral awakening, while also highlighting Priestley’s critique of generational divides. The use of noun “Daddy” initially reflects Sheila’s childlike dependence on her father, Mr. Birling, conforming to the patriarchal expectations of Edwardian society, where young women were expected to be submissive and deferential. However, the adverb “actually” introduces a subtle yet significant shift in tone, as Sheila begins to assert her own voice and challenge her father’s authority. This linguistic choice suggests her emerging defiance and awareness, marking the start of her transformation from a naive, sheltered figure into a more morally conscious individual. The phrase “I was listening” further underscores her attentiveness and willingness to engage with the Inspector’s message, contrasting sharply with Mr. Birling’s dismissive and arrogant attitude. This moment is filled with dramatic irony, as Sheila’s apology, “I’m sorry,” not only addresses her father but also hints at her growing recognition of her own complicity in Eva Smith’s suffering, aligning her with Priestley’s theme of collective responsibility. Through this quote, Priestley positions Sheila as a symbol of hope and change, representing the younger generation’s capacity for empathy and social reform, in stark contrast to the older generation’s entrenched selfishness and denial. Her character arc, beginning with this line, reflects Priestley’s socialist ideals and his belief in the potential for societal progress through individual accountability and moral growth.
“I know I’m to blame-and I’m desperately sorry.
In An Inspector Calls, Sheila Birling’s quote, “I know I’m to blame—and I’m desperately sorry”, marks a significant moment in her character arc, showcasing her transformation from a privileged, naive individual to one who embodies responsibility and moral growth. The declarative tone of “I know I’m to blame” highlights Sheila’s self-awareness and acceptance of her role in Eva Smith’s suffering, contrasting sharply with the denial and defensiveness of characters like Mr. and Mrs. Birling. The emotive adjective “desperately” conveys the intensity of her remorse, suggesting a profound emotional shift and a break from her earlier superficiality, such as when she abused her social power to have Eva fired from Milwards out of jealousy. The caesura created by the dash forces a pause, emphasising the weight of her admission and inviting the audience to reflect on her accountability. Structurally, Priestley positions Sheila’s admission early in the play, establishing her as a moral compass and a symbol of the younger generation’s potential for change. Her willingness to accept blame aligns with Priestley’s socialist message, promoting collective responsibility and challenging the capitalist individualism embodied by her parents. Through Sheila’s character, Priestley critiques the hypocrisy of the upper classes and advocates for social justice, making her a key vehicle for his ideological aims. This moment not only signifies Sheila’s moral awakening but also reinforces the play’s central themes of responsibility, guilt, and the need for societal reform.
you mustn’t try to build up a kind of wall between us and that girl
In An Inspector Calls, Sheila’s quote, “You mustn’t try to build up a kind of wall between us and that girl,” shows how she’s starting to understand the importance of taking responsibility for her actions, unlike her parents. The metaphor of the “wall” represents the class divide and how the Birlings try to separate themselves from Eva Smith because she’s working-class. Sheila’s use of the word “mustn’t” is quite firm and shows she’s becoming more assertive, as she realises they can’t just ignore their role in Eva’s suffering. The pronouns “us” and “that girl” highlight how Eva is seen as inferior by the Birlings, but Sheila is starting to see her as a real person, not just someone beneath them. This presents Sheila as more empathetic and morally aware compared to her parents, who are selfish and refuse to accept any blame. Sheila’s growth reflects Priestley’s message about social responsibility and breaking down class barriers, making her a symbol of hope for change. Her tone is urgent and direct, showing she’s determined to challenge her family’s attitudes and do the right thing.
fire,blood and anguish
In An Inspector Calls, Sheila Birling’s quote, “fire, blood and anguish,” is a powerful and symbolic moment that reflects her emotional and moral transformation, using vivid, almost apocalyptic imagery to convey the devastating consequences of the Birling family’s selfishness and lack of responsibility. The triplet structure creates rhythmic intensity, with each word carrying heavy connotations: “fire” suggests destruction and punishment, evoking ideas of chaos and irreversible damage; “blood” implies violence, guilt, and the physical consequences of their actions; and “anguish” conveys deep emotional pain, highlighting the human cost of their behaviour. Together, they paint a harrowing picture of a world filled with suffering, which Sheila now recognises as a direct result of her family’s actions. The phrase’s biblical undertones, evoking hell and divine retribution, further emphasise her moral clarity, suggesting she sees the suffering as a form of punishment for their moral failings. This moment also highlights Sheila’s role as a catalyst for change within the play, as she challenges her family’s attitudes and represents the younger generation’s potential for redemption
conclusion
In conclusion, Sheila’s character represents the younger generation’s potential for change and self-improvement. By the end of the play, she takes full responsibility for her actions and clearly understands the Inspector’s message about social responsibility. This shows that she has matured and grown more aware of the inequalities in society, unlike her parents, who cling to their old-fashioned views. Priestley uses Sheila to show hope for the future, as she symbolises the possibility of a fairer and more compassionate world. Ultimately, Sheila’s transformation is central to the play’s message, as she proves that people can change if they are willing to learn from their mistakes.
