Sheila Birling, one of the main characters in J. B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls," goes through significant character development throughout the play. In Act 1, Sheila Birling quotes show her to be somewhat self-centered and materialistic, as seen in her quote "It's a rotten shame." However, as the play progresses, Sheila Birling key quotes in Act 2 and Act 3 reveal her increasing awareness and guilt about her past actions.
In Act 1, Sheila Birling expresses a sense of entitlement and self-centeredness, as she notes "I'm supposed to be engaged to the heir of it" and "girls aren't cheap labour - they're people." These quotes illustrate her initial lack of empathy and social consciousness.
However, as the play unfolds, Sheila Birling quotes in Act 2 and Act 3 show her becoming more enlightened and willing to speak up. Her quote "If all that's come out tonight is true, then it doesn't matter who it was who made us confess" displays her newfound realization of the importance of taking responsibility for her actions.
Meanwhile, Eric Birling quotes also play a crucial role in the play. His quote "If she'd been some miserable plain little creature, I don't suppose you'd have done it" shows his vindictive and jealous nature, but he also demonstrates growth and maturity as he says "You & I aren't the same people who sat down to dinner here" in Act 3.
The characters in "An Inspector Calls" undergo significant changes throughout the play. As the audience observes their development, they are drawn into the social and moral themes that Priestley addresses in his work.
For those looking to study the play further, "An Inspector Calls" is available in PDF form, and a film adaptation has also been made. The play is often included in General Certificate of Secondary Education books, and there are multiple resources available for analysis and study, including the original script and a BBC adaptation.
In conclusion, the quotes and character development of Sheila and Eric Birling in "An Inspector Calls" reveal the social and moral themes that J. B. Priestley addresses in his plays. Through their evolution, the audience is encouraged to reflect on their own actions and consider the impact of their choices on others.
