Eva Smith, a central figure in "An Inspector Calls," represents... Show more
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5 Nov 2022
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Eva Smith Quotes and Analysis: Key Notes and How She's Presented in An Inspector Calls
L
Lara Harding
@laraharding_fbdz
Eva Smith's Role in "An Inspector Calls"
Eva Smith, though never appearing on stage, is the central character around whom the entire plot of "An Inspector Calls" revolves. Her story is pieced together through the revelations of the Birling family and Gerald Croft, as they are interrogated by Inspector Goole.
Highlight: Eva Smith represents the vulnerable working class in early 20th century Britain, showcasing the impact of social inequality and the lack of responsibility from the upper classes.
Eva's journey begins at Mr. Birling's factory, where she is described as a capable worker. However, her involvement in a strike for better pay leads to her dismissal. This event sets the stage for her subsequent encounters with other characters.
Quote: "She'd had a lot to say - far too much - so she had to go." - Mr. Birling
This quote reveals Mr. Birling's attitude towards workers who speak up for their rights, highlighting the class divide and the powerlessness of the working class.
After losing her job at the factory, Eva finds employment at Milwards, a dress shop. Here, she encounters Sheila Birling, who, in a moment of jealousy, complains about Eva, resulting in her dismissal. This incident showcases how the whims of the upper class could drastically affect the lives of working-class individuals.
Vocabulary: Euphemism - A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
The Inspector uses a euphemism when referring to Eva's subsequent turn to prostitution, stating that "Now she'd have to try something new." This delicate phrasing highlights the societal taboos surrounding such topics and the desperate measures Eva was forced to take.
Eva's transformation into Daisy Renton marks a significant turning point in her story. As Daisy, she becomes Gerald Croft's mistress, revealing the exploitation of vulnerable women by men in positions of power.
Example: Eva's change of name to Daisy Renton illustrates how she attempts to reinvent herself and escape her past, but ultimately cannot escape the cycle of exploitation.
The play presents Eva/Daisy as a complex character. She is described as "a lively, good-looking girl - country bred," suggesting a certain naivety. However, she is also portrayed as capable and not afraid to speak up for herself and others, as evidenced by her leadership in the strike.
Definition: Country-bred - A term used to describe someone raised in a rural area, often implying a lack of sophistication or worldliness associated with urban life.
Eva's final interaction with the Birling family comes through Mrs. Birling, who rejects her application for charity assistance. This rejection, coming when Eva is pregnant and desperate, pushes her to her final, tragic act of suicide by swallowing disinfectant.
Quote: "She was very pretty and looked as if she could take care of herself." - Sheila Birling
This quote demonstrates how Eva was often judged based on her appearance, with assumptions made about her character and capabilities that ultimately contributed to her downfall.
Through Eva Smith's story, J.B. Priestley critiques the social structures of early 20th century Britain, highlighting the interconnectedness of society and the responsibility each individual bears for their actions towards others. Eva Smith's character analysis reveals her as a symbol of the oppressed working class, a victim of societal prejudices, and a catalyst for the moral awakening of the other characters in the play.
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
Eva Smith Quotes and Analysis: Key Notes and How She's Presented in An Inspector Calls
L
Lara Harding
@laraharding_fbdz
Eva Smith, a central figure in "An Inspector Calls," represents the working class and the consequences of social inequality. Her story unfolds through multiple interactions with the Birling family and Gerald Croft, highlighting themes of responsibility, class, and morality.
- Eva's... Show more
Eva Smith's Role in "An Inspector Calls"
Eva Smith, though never appearing on stage, is the central character around whom the entire plot of "An Inspector Calls" revolves. Her story is pieced together through the revelations of the Birling family and Gerald Croft, as they are interrogated by Inspector Goole.
Highlight: Eva Smith represents the vulnerable working class in early 20th century Britain, showcasing the impact of social inequality and the lack of responsibility from the upper classes.
Eva's journey begins at Mr. Birling's factory, where she is described as a capable worker. However, her involvement in a strike for better pay leads to her dismissal. This event sets the stage for her subsequent encounters with other characters.
Quote: "She'd had a lot to say - far too much - so she had to go." - Mr. Birling
This quote reveals Mr. Birling's attitude towards workers who speak up for their rights, highlighting the class divide and the powerlessness of the working class.
After losing her job at the factory, Eva finds employment at Milwards, a dress shop. Here, she encounters Sheila Birling, who, in a moment of jealousy, complains about Eva, resulting in her dismissal. This incident showcases how the whims of the upper class could drastically affect the lives of working-class individuals.
Vocabulary: Euphemism - A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
The Inspector uses a euphemism when referring to Eva's subsequent turn to prostitution, stating that "Now she'd have to try something new." This delicate phrasing highlights the societal taboos surrounding such topics and the desperate measures Eva was forced to take.
Eva's transformation into Daisy Renton marks a significant turning point in her story. As Daisy, she becomes Gerald Croft's mistress, revealing the exploitation of vulnerable women by men in positions of power.
Example: Eva's change of name to Daisy Renton illustrates how she attempts to reinvent herself and escape her past, but ultimately cannot escape the cycle of exploitation.
The play presents Eva/Daisy as a complex character. She is described as "a lively, good-looking girl - country bred," suggesting a certain naivety. However, she is also portrayed as capable and not afraid to speak up for herself and others, as evidenced by her leadership in the strike.
Definition: Country-bred - A term used to describe someone raised in a rural area, often implying a lack of sophistication or worldliness associated with urban life.
Eva's final interaction with the Birling family comes through Mrs. Birling, who rejects her application for charity assistance. This rejection, coming when Eva is pregnant and desperate, pushes her to her final, tragic act of suicide by swallowing disinfectant.
Quote: "She was very pretty and looked as if she could take care of herself." - Sheila Birling
This quote demonstrates how Eva was often judged based on her appearance, with assumptions made about her character and capabilities that ultimately contributed to her downfall.
Through Eva Smith's story, J.B. Priestley critiques the social structures of early 20th century Britain, highlighting the interconnectedness of society and the responsibility each individual bears for their actions towards others. Eva Smith's character analysis reveals her as a symbol of the oppressed working class, a victim of societal prejudices, and a catalyst for the moral awakening of the other characters in the play.
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