Character Analysis of Sheila Birling in An Inspector Calls

A set of fill-in-the-blank flashcards covering Sheila Birling's character arc, key quotes, and Priestley's social messages in An Inspector Calls.

In the beginning of the play, Sheila Birling is portrayed as immature and self-centred because of her __________ upbringing.

privileged

After meeting Inspector Goole, Sheila becomes remorseful, accepts responsibility, and represents __________ for a better society.

hope

Priestley encourages the audience to recognise the importance of __________ through Sheila's transformation.

social responsibility

In Body Paragraph 1, Sheila is shown to abuse her __________ to satisfy her own desires.

social status

Sheila once threatened, "If they didn't get rid of that girl, I'd __________."

never go near the place again

The absolute phrase "never go near the place again" emphasises Sheila's belief that her family's wealth gives her __________ over others.

power

Sheila's use of the adjective "__________" when describing her behavior toward the girl reflects her recognition of her own poor behavior.

rude

The honest diction in the word "rude" serves to __________ Sheila's later transformation.

foreshadow

Unlike her parents, Sheila does not __________ her mistakes after the Inspector's visit.

deny

Sheila declares, "I'll __________, __________ do it again to anybody," showing her determination to change.

never, never

The repetition of the absolute word "__________" highlights the depth of Sheila's guilt.

never

To show her regret is sincere rather than superficial, Sheila states, "I'm __________ sorry."

desperately

The adverb "__________" intensifies Sheila’s apology and demonstrates her sincere regret.

desperately

Priestley contrasts Sheila’s honesty with the __________, who refuse to accept blame for their actions.

older generation