Sybil Birling - Act 3 Key Quotations

Question 1

Sybil is once again oblivious and blind about her own son’s drinking habits, perhaps suggesting her self-centredness or her artificial, sheltered world of materialism:

Answer 1

“I didn’t know it was you - I never dreamt”

Question 2

Sheila retorts and alienates herself from her family, as well as the social norms of the time, to criticise the capitalist views of her parents (presents the theme of the generational divide):

Answer 2

“it’s you two who are being childish - trying not to face the facts”
- Alludes to the sheltered world that Sybil lives in, filled with materialism, wealth, and obliviousness to the suffering of the proletariats.

Question 3

Sybil triumphantly says that she is the only one who did not give in to the Inspector’s interrogation - her mocking tone towards the others exemplifies her obsession over appearance and reputation instead of morality and accepting social responsibility for the consequences of her actions on others:

Answer 3

“I was the only one of you who didn’t give in to him.”

Question 4

Sybil is grateful towards Gerald for suggesting that the Inspector was a fake - this once again highlights her obsession over public appearance (she fears that a scandal would tarnish her reputation and status in society, rather than being concerned about her immoral actions towards the helpless proletariat classes):

Answer 4

“Gerald, you’ve argued this very cleverly, and I’m most grateful.”