Sheila means 'Blind One', continuing her presentation as a naive member of the Upper class. At the start of the play, Sheila is self-centered and cannot observe issues faced by the working class (like Eva Smith). Therefore,  this is a criticism of the upper class, suggesting that they are ignorant and that this hurts society. 

What is the significance of Sheila's name?

The name Edna has ties with 'rebirth' or 'rejuvenation '. It is suggested that she represents the lower class in a similar way to Eva. The way the Birlings treat her after this experience is their second chance. Alternatively,  she is the rebirth of Eva's spirit, morals, values and beliefs. 

The name Eva is very similarly to 'Eve', linking her to the origin story in the bible. Priestley suggests that working class people form society and are just as significant as the upper class. This link could also mean that the working class are suffering a punishment too. Eva could also mean 'animal', highlighting the dehumanising treatment she faces as a low class woman. Finally, Eva Smith is a common name, meaning she represents the working class as a whole. 

What is the significance of Eva's Name? (Eva Smith)

Daisy connotes innocence and youth, something that is ironic considering her current occupation. Using 'innocent' names highlights the immorality of forcing lower class women into accepting demeaning jobs,  whilst showing that the same women cannot access their youth as they are forced to earn money for survival. 'Renton' also shows her profession, with 'rent' referencing it directly. Even though Eva can chose her name (make decisions), it is still influenced by the upper class.

What is the significance of Eva's name? (Daisy Renton)

Mrs Birling's name is Sybil; a prophet. Her name, along with Mr Birling's hold the most irony. As her name means prophet, it is suggested that she knows the lives or futures of the working class. This is especially prominent considering her work for charity. As such,  Sybil failed her role by seeing the futures of those she is meant to help and turning a blind eye. Priestley criticises the upper class, suggesting they failed to meet their responsibilities.

What is the significance of Mrs Birling's name?

Mr Birling's name is Arthur, referencing King Arthur of the round table. As he is in charge of a workplace, he is responsible for the wellbeing of his employees and the working class in general (who are less fortunate than him). However,  Arthur fails to protect those he has power over and inflicts punishment. So, he has failed in his own role. Both Arthur and Sybil as names show that the upper class have responsibilities they do not meet, they fail to help the lower class. 

What is the significance of Mr Birling's name?

Irony, especially in these names, are important as it openly criticises the upper class for their behaviour, which is often selfish. As the criticism is discrete, it is more likely to be validated by upper/middle class readers/viewers.

Simply, 'Goole' sounds like 'Ghoul', pulling into the supernatural element of the play. Using a title rather than a name gives the Inspector power as he is respected as an authority figure,  even above the poems. As such, individuality is also removed from the Inspector which allows him to act as a direct mouthpiece for Priestley's political message. 

What is the significance of Inspector Goole's name?

Both Gerald's and Eric have a meaning of 'to rule' or 'ruler 'which reinforces the ideas of the patriarchy that are established alongside the critique of class. Both figures have opposing views of the situation but also portray traditionally masculine traits. Therefore, the viewer is forces to evaluate what makes a ruler good or bad, as well as questioning the values that are taught as leadership. 

What is significant about Gerald's and Eric's names?

Biblical references, especially in names are significant as they relate this content (which would be read as extreme) to the Majorly Christian readers/viewers. It compares new figures to familiar ones and reinforces constructs of irony against Priestley's political diatribe.

English (UK)

Introduction to basic points in An Inspectir Calls, English Literature Exam

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United Kingdom

DEFAULT (England)

English Literature

Name Analysis: An Inspector Calls

Learn about name analysis in An Inspector Calls with this study guide. Understand the meaning of Inspector Goole and Sybil's name. Perfect for GCSE English exam prep with revision PDFs, worksheets, and booklets including answers and free downloads. Covers basic points and onomastic symbolism in An Inspector Calls.

Name Analysis and Inspector Goole in An Inspector Calls - Study Guide PDF

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Name Analysis and Inspector Goole in An Inspector Calls - Study Guide PDF

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