Sheila Birling's Character Development
Sheila Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls" undergoes a significant transformation throughout the play. This page explores her initial presentation and the changes she experiences as the story unfolds.
At the beginning of the play, Sheila is portrayed as a typical upper-class young woman of her time. She is excited about her engagement and the material symbols that come with it, such as her ring. This is evident in her exclamation, "Isn't it a beauty?" when referring to her engagement ring.
Quote: "Isn't it a beauty?"
Highlight: This quote emphasizes Sheila's initial focus on material possessions, reflecting the values of her social class.
As the play progresses, Sheila begins to show more depth and insight. She is quick to understand the Inspector's methods and the implications of his investigation. Her intelligence becomes apparent as she pieces together the puzzle before others in her family.
Quote: "He's giving us the rope - so that we'll hang ourselves."
Highlight: This quote demonstrates Sheila's growing understanding of the situation and her ability to see through the Inspector's tactics.
Sheila's character also displays a strong sense of empathy and moral awareness. She is deeply affected by Eva Smith's story and begins to question her own actions and those of her family.
Quote: "I can't help thinking about this girl - destroying herself so horribly and I've been so happy tonight. Oh, I wish you hadn't told me."
Highlight: This quote shows Sheila's developing empathy and the internal conflict she experiences as she confronts the consequences of her actions.
As the play continues, Sheila becomes more assertive and critical of her family's attitudes. She challenges their attempts to dismiss the Inspector's revelations and insists on facing the truth.
Quote: "But these girls aren't cheap labour - they're people."
Highlight: This quote illustrates Sheila's growing social conscience and her willingness to confront her father's capitalist mindset.
By the end of the play, Sheila has transformed into a more mature, morally conscious individual. She accepts responsibility for her actions and recognizes the need for change in society.
Quote: "I tell you - whoever that Inspector was, it was anything but a joke. You knew it then. You began to learn something. And now you've stopped. You're ready to go on in the same old way."
Highlight: This quote showcases Sheila's final transformation, as she stands firm in her newfound moral convictions and challenges her family to acknowledge their responsibility.
