Sybil Birling

Question 1

ACT 2

“Girls of that class”

Answer 1

• exclusive language of “that” draws a distinction between Eva & Sybil
• conveys how Sybil feels above the working class, separated by “a kind of wall” (sheila line)
• sees her as just a member of “that class” -> doesn’t address her as a human being

THEME: CLASS

Question 2

ACT 1

“Arthur, you shouldn’t be saying such things.”

Answer 2

• introduces power dynamic between the parents
• “such things” referring to him thanking the cook shows Sybil’s cold nature

THEME: CLASS

Question 3

ACT 3

[shocked] “Eric! You stole money?”

Answer 3

• amidst the chaos, she only cares about money
• contrasts with the younger generation’s empathy
• exclamative “eric!” shows her outrage

THEME: AGE/GENERATION

Question 4

ACT 3

“I’m the only one who did not give in to him”

Answer 4

• conveys sybil as the sin of pride
• she holds her self regard and ego too high to even admit to her behaviour
• she tries to throw her family under the bus -> showing lack of familial love

THEME: SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Question 5

ACT 2

“I’m very sorry. But i think she had only herself to blame.”

Answer 5

• Shows Sybil’s ignorant nature, refusing to accept any responsibility
• shows her cold nature - she is willing to blame a girl for her own death, knowing she is involved

THEME: SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Question 6

opening stage directions

“his wife is about fifty, a rather cold woman and her husband’s social superior”

Answer 6

• “cold” is seen throughout the play within her actions
• “social superior” establishes an uneven power dynamic between the parents