Sheila's Growing Strength and Independence
By the end of the play, Sheila has become a completely different person - and it's brilliant to watch. She starts challenging her father's outdated views, boldly stating "these girls aren't cheap labour, they're people". This might not sound revolutionary to us, but in 1912, a young woman standing up to her father like this was pretty radical.
The most powerful moment comes when Gerald tries to give her the engagement ring back, assuming everything can return to normal. Sheila's refusal shows she's learned that actions have real consequences - something the adults still don't grasp. Her sarcastic comment, "So there's nothing to be sorry for, nothing to learn", perfectly captures how frustrated she is with their ignorance.
Priestley uses Sheila to represent the suffragette movement and changing women's roles in society. She refuses to be the obedient daughter anymore and instead chooses to think for herself. Her acceptance of social responsibility - the idea that we all have duties towards each other - becomes Priestley's main message.
Remember This: Sheila's character development isn't just about her personal growth - it's Priestley's way of showing that society can change if young people are willing to learn from their mistakes.