Open the App

Subjects

Sheila Birling Quotes and Character Analysis in An Inspector Calls

145

3

user profile picture

An Pham

02/11/2025

English Literature

Sheila Birling in An Inspector Calls

6,031

2 Nov 2025

1 page

Sheila Birling Quotes and Character Analysis in An Inspector Calls

user profile picture

An Pham

@apham

Sheila Birling's Character Evolution in An Inspector Calls

J.B. Priestley's... Show more

1) 'a pretty girl in her eany
twenties, very pleased with
life and rather excited.)
stage directions
•builds up an image of a spoilt
girl wh

Sheila Birling's Initial Characterization and Transformation

Priestley introduces Sheila Birling as a product of her privileged upbringing, gradually revealing her capacity for change and moral growth. The playwright uses Sheila's character to critique societal norms and showcase the potential for positive transformation.

Quote: "a pretty girl in her early twenties, very pleased with life and rather excited."

This stage direction establishes Sheila's initial character, portraying her as naive and immature. The description reinforces female stereotypes of the time, reflecting the patriarchal society.

Highlight: Sheila's use of "mummy" despite being in her twenties demonstrates her infantilization and acceptance of a submissive role within the family structure.

Sheila's evolving perspective becomes evident as she grapples with the consequences of her actions:

Quote: "I can't help thinking about this girl-destroying herself so horribly- and I've been so happy tonight."

This statement reveals Sheila's growing empathy and the emotional impact of the Inspector's revelations. The dashes in her speech suggest pauses, indicating her overwhelming emotions and internal struggle.

As Sheila's character develops, she begins to challenge societal norms:

Quote: "But these girls aren't cheap labour - they're people."

This assertion demonstrates Sheila's newfound respect for working-class individuals and her rejection of their objectification. It represents hope for future social change, aligning with Priestley's vision of a more equitable society.

Highlight: Sheila and Eric represent the younger generation, whom Priestley viewed as more receptive to change and crucial for societal progress.

Sheila's transformation culminates in her ability to confront her family's moral failings:

Quote: "You mustn't try to build up a kind of wall between us and that girl. If you do, then the inspector will just break it down!"

This statement showcases Sheila's complete transformation. She adopts the Inspector's rhetoric to challenge her parents' attempts to distance themselves from responsibility.

Vocabulary: Bourgeoisie - The capitalist class who own most of society's wealth and means of production.

Priestley uses Sheila's character arc to illustrate the potential for individual and societal change, offering hope to the audience that social progress is possible through self-reflection and acceptance of responsibility.



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.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

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 THE SCHOOLGPT. 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 THE SCHOOLGPT. 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

 

English Literature

6,031

2 Nov 2025

1 page

Sheila Birling Quotes and Character Analysis in An Inspector Calls

user profile picture

An Pham

@apham

Sheila Birling's Character Evolution in An Inspector Calls

J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls" showcases Sheila Birling's character developmentfrom a naive, privileged young woman to a socially conscious individual. This transformation is central to the play's themes of responsibility... Show more

1) 'a pretty girl in her eany
twenties, very pleased with
life and rather excited.)
stage directions
•builds up an image of a spoilt
girl wh

Sign 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

Sheila Birling's Initial Characterization and Transformation

Priestley introduces Sheila Birling as a product of her privileged upbringing, gradually revealing her capacity for change and moral growth. The playwright uses Sheila's character to critique societal norms and showcase the potential for positive transformation.

Quote: "a pretty girl in her early twenties, very pleased with life and rather excited."

This stage direction establishes Sheila's initial character, portraying her as naive and immature. The description reinforces female stereotypes of the time, reflecting the patriarchal society.

Highlight: Sheila's use of "mummy" despite being in her twenties demonstrates her infantilization and acceptance of a submissive role within the family structure.

Sheila's evolving perspective becomes evident as she grapples with the consequences of her actions:

Quote: "I can't help thinking about this girl-destroying herself so horribly- and I've been so happy tonight."

This statement reveals Sheila's growing empathy and the emotional impact of the Inspector's revelations. The dashes in her speech suggest pauses, indicating her overwhelming emotions and internal struggle.

As Sheila's character develops, she begins to challenge societal norms:

Quote: "But these girls aren't cheap labour - they're people."

This assertion demonstrates Sheila's newfound respect for working-class individuals and her rejection of their objectification. It represents hope for future social change, aligning with Priestley's vision of a more equitable society.

Highlight: Sheila and Eric represent the younger generation, whom Priestley viewed as more receptive to change and crucial for societal progress.

Sheila's transformation culminates in her ability to confront her family's moral failings:

Quote: "You mustn't try to build up a kind of wall between us and that girl. If you do, then the inspector will just break it down!"

This statement showcases Sheila's complete transformation. She adopts the Inspector's rhetoric to challenge her parents' attempts to distance themselves from responsibility.

Vocabulary: Bourgeoisie - The capitalist class who own most of society's wealth and means of production.

Priestley uses Sheila's character arc to illustrate the potential for individual and societal change, offering hope to the audience that social progress is possible through self-reflection and acceptance of responsibility.

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.

145

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Blood Brothers: Class & Fate

Explore the critical themes of social class, superstition, and violence in 'Blood Brothers'. This summary delves into how these elements shape the lives of Mickey and Edward, highlighting the impact of their differing backgrounds and the inevitability of their tragic fate. Ideal for students studying the play's thematic depth.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Poverty in A Christmas Carol

Explore how Charles Dickens presents the theme of poverty in 'A Christmas Carol' through the character of Scrooge and his interactions with the Cratchit family. This analysis delves into the social injustices faced by the poor, the impact of class divide, and the moral lessons conveyed through Scrooge's transformation. Ideal for essay preparation and understanding key themes in Victorian literature.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Maude Clare Analysis

Explore a comprehensive analysis of Christina Rossetti's poem 'Maude Clare', focusing on its themes of love, female relationships, and societal expectations. This study note delves into the poem's structure, character perspectives, and the implications of the ending, providing insights into Rossetti's critique of the Victorian marriage market. Ideal for literature students seeking to understand the complexities of this ballad.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
12

Key Quotes: Lord of the Flies

Explore pivotal quotes and their significance from Chapters 1 and 2 of 'Lord of the Flies'. This summary highlights themes of civilization versus savagery, the symbolism of the conch, and character dynamics between Ralph, Jack, and Piggy. Ideal for students seeking to understand the deeper meanings behind the text.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Character Analysis: Sherlock Holmes

Explore a detailed PEE analysis of key characters in 'The Sign of Four', including Sherlock Holmes, Mary Morstan, and Jonathan Small. This study note provides evidence and critical insights into their personalities, motivations, and relationships, making it essential for understanding the detective genre. Ideal for students preparing for exams or deepening their literary analysis skills.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
11

Exploring Jekyll and Hyde

Dive into the key themes of 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' with this comprehensive analysis. Explore the duality of man, the conflict between good and evil, the significance of friendship, and the critique of Victorian society. This study note includes essential quotations and insights into Robert Louis Stevenson's authorial intent, making it a valuable resource for understanding the novella's deeper meanings.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
11

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

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 THE SCHOOLGPT. 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 THE SCHOOLGPT. 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