Eric Birling is a complex character in "An Inspector Calls"... Show more
Sociology
BiologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
1,165
•
12 Feb 2026
•
Eric Birling: Quotes, Character, and Analysis in An Inspector Calls
Ella Shorter
@ellashorter
Eric Birling: Character Analysis
Eric Birling is a pivotal character in J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls". As the son of the wealthy Birling family, Eric's character development is central to the play's themes of social responsibility and moral awakening.
Highlight: Eric's character arc represents the potential for change and moral growth in the younger generation, contrasting with the older generation's rigid views.
Characteristics and Personality
Eric is portrayed as a complex and flawed individual. He is sympathetic towards the working class, questioning his father's capitalist ideals. This is evident when he asks, "why shouldn't they try for higher wages?" His concern for workers' rights sets him apart from his family's conservative views.
Quote: "In his early twenties, not quite at ease, half shy-half assertive"
This description by Priestley reveals Eric's lack of confidence and indecisive nature. The repetition of "half" emphasizes his internal conflict and immaturity, foreshadowing the poor choices he will make.
Eric struggles with alcoholism, which contributes to his poor decision-making. His actions, including getting Eva Smith pregnant and stealing money from his father, demonstrate his impulsive and irresponsible behavior.
Vocabulary: Capitalism - An economic system based on private ownership of property and business, with the goal of making profit in a free market.
Relationship with Eva Smith
Eric's interaction with Eva Smith is a crucial element of his character development. His initial attraction to her is superficial, as evidenced by his quote:
Quote: "I wasn't in love or anything but I liked her. She was pretty"
This statement reveals Eric's emotional immaturity and self-indulgent nature. It suggests a lack of depth in his relationships and a tendency to objectify women.
Moral Awakening
As the play progresses, Eric undergoes a significant moral transformation. He begins to understand the consequences of his actions and feels genuine remorse for his role in Eva's death.
Quote: "And I say that the girl's dead and we all helped to kill her-and that's what matters"
This powerful statement demonstrates Eric's acceptance of responsibility. The use of "we" includes everyone on stage, emphasizing the collective guilt and responsibility for Eva's fate.
Symbolic Representation
Eric's character can be seen as a metaphor for the abuse of the working class by capitalist society. This is suggested in the quote:
Quote: "When a chap easily turns nasty"
The ease with which Eric's behavior turns "nasty" could symbolize how capitalism exploits the lower classes. This interpretation adds depth to Eric's character and ties him closely to the play's broader social critique.
In conclusion, Eric Birling's character analysis reveals a young man grappling with personal flaws and societal expectations. His journey from a careless, privileged youth to a remorseful, socially conscious individual embodies the play's central themes of responsibility and the potential for change.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Character Analysis
Most popular content in English Literature
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5
App Store
4.7/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Eric Birling: Quotes, Character, and Analysis in An Inspector Calls
Ella Shorter
@ellashorter
Eric Birling is a complex character in "An Inspector Calls" who undergoes significant development throughout the play. Initially portrayed as immature and lacking confidence, Eric's journey reveals his moral awakening and sense of responsibility.
- Eric shows sympathy for the working... Show more
Eric Birling: Character Analysis
Eric Birling is a pivotal character in J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls". As the son of the wealthy Birling family, Eric's character development is central to the play's themes of social responsibility and moral awakening.
Highlight: Eric's character arc represents the potential for change and moral growth in the younger generation, contrasting with the older generation's rigid views.
Characteristics and Personality
Eric is portrayed as a complex and flawed individual. He is sympathetic towards the working class, questioning his father's capitalist ideals. This is evident when he asks, "why shouldn't they try for higher wages?" His concern for workers' rights sets him apart from his family's conservative views.
Quote: "In his early twenties, not quite at ease, half shy-half assertive"
This description by Priestley reveals Eric's lack of confidence and indecisive nature. The repetition of "half" emphasizes his internal conflict and immaturity, foreshadowing the poor choices he will make.
Eric struggles with alcoholism, which contributes to his poor decision-making. His actions, including getting Eva Smith pregnant and stealing money from his father, demonstrate his impulsive and irresponsible behavior.
Vocabulary: Capitalism - An economic system based on private ownership of property and business, with the goal of making profit in a free market.
Relationship with Eva Smith
Eric's interaction with Eva Smith is a crucial element of his character development. His initial attraction to her is superficial, as evidenced by his quote:
Quote: "I wasn't in love or anything but I liked her. She was pretty"
This statement reveals Eric's emotional immaturity and self-indulgent nature. It suggests a lack of depth in his relationships and a tendency to objectify women.
Moral Awakening
As the play progresses, Eric undergoes a significant moral transformation. He begins to understand the consequences of his actions and feels genuine remorse for his role in Eva's death.
Quote: "And I say that the girl's dead and we all helped to kill her-and that's what matters"
This powerful statement demonstrates Eric's acceptance of responsibility. The use of "we" includes everyone on stage, emphasizing the collective guilt and responsibility for Eva's fate.
Symbolic Representation
Eric's character can be seen as a metaphor for the abuse of the working class by capitalist society. This is suggested in the quote:
Quote: "When a chap easily turns nasty"
The ease with which Eric's behavior turns "nasty" could symbolize how capitalism exploits the lower classes. This interpretation adds depth to Eric's character and ties him closely to the play's broader social critique.
In conclusion, Eric Birling's character analysis reveals a young man grappling with personal flaws and societal expectations. His journey from a careless, privileged youth to a remorseful, socially conscious individual embodies the play's central themes of responsibility and the potential for change.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
27
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Lennie Character Analysis
Explore the complexities of Lennie Small from 'Of Mice and Men' through this detailed character analysis. Understand his dependence on George, his innocence, and the societal challenges he faces. This summary highlights key themes and character traits, making it an essential resource for literature students studying Steinbeck's work.
English Literature10
In Cold Blood Analysis
Analysis and dive into the book In Cold Blood
AP English LanguageAn Inspector Calls: Character Insights
Explore the key character analyses and themes in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This study note delves into the motivations and moral dilemmas faced by characters like Gerald Croft, Eva Smith, and the Birling family, highlighting significant quotes and the author's social commentary. Ideal for students seeking a deeper understanding of the play's critique of class and responsibility.
English Literature10
Ozymandias Analysis
Explore key themes and quotations from Percy Bysshe Shelley's 'Ozymandias'. This analysis delves into the poem's exploration of pride, power, and the inevitable decay of human achievements. Key concepts include the irony of power, the significance of the statue's ruin, and the vastness of time. Ideal for students studying literature and poetry analysis.
English Literature10
Psychoanalysis in Death of a Salesman
Explore the psychoanalytic dimensions of Arthur Miller's 'Death of a Salesman' through Freud's structural and topographical models of personality. This analysis delves into Willy Loman's psyche, examining the roles of the id, ego, and superego, and how his deceased brother Ben influences his tragic decisions. Ideal for students studying literature and psychology, this summary highlights key concepts such as neurosis, defense mechanisms, and the American Dream.
English Literature12
Mourning in Rossetti's Remember
Explore the themes of mourning and remembrance in Christina Rossetti's poem 'Remember'. This analysis covers the Victorian context, the structure of the Petrarchan sonnet, and the emotional depth of the speaker's plea. Ideal for students studying pre-1900 love poetry and Rossetti's works.
English Literature12
Most popular content: Character Analysis
Most popular content in English Literature
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5
App Store
4.7/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user