AIC Key Quotes - Responsibility

“We are responsible for each other.”

• Speaker: The Inspector

• Act: 3

• Analysis: The Inspector emphasizes the interconnectedness of society and the moral responsibility individuals have to one another, regardless of class. This is a key socialist message in the play.

• Effect on the reader: Encourages the audience to reflect on their own social responsibility and challenges the selfish, individualistic attitudes of the upper class.

“Public men, Mr. Birling, have responsibilities as well as privileges.”

• Speaker: The Inspector

• Act: 1

• Analysis: The Inspector reminds Mr. Birling that those in positions of power, such as himself, have a duty to look after the well-being of others. This statement critiques the self-serving attitudes of the privileged.

• Effect on the reader: Highlights the moral obligation of those in power to act for the greater good, encouraging the audience to consider the social responsibilities of leaders and business owners.

“It’s better to ask for the earth than to take it.”

• Speaker: The Inspector

• Act: 3

• Analysis: The Inspector argues that it is more ethical to request what is rightfully yours rather than exploiting others to obtain it. This reinforces the idea of fairness and responsibility.

• Effect on the reader: This challenges the audience to question their own actions and attitudes, urging them to consider the consequences of their choices on others.

“Each of you helped to kill her. Remember that. Never forget it.”

• Speaker: The Inspector

• Act: 3

• Analysis: The Inspector makes it clear that every member of the Birling family played a part in Eva Smith’s death, underlining the idea of collective responsibility.

• Effect on the reader: Forces the audience to confront the consequences of their actions and the broader societal impact of individual decisions, promoting a sense of shared moral responsibility.

“But I can’t help thinking you might have done better for yourself socially.”

• Speaker: The Inspector

• Act: 3

• Analysis: The Inspector reflects on Eva’s missed opportunities due to the lack of social responsibility shown by those in power. He emphasizes the role of society in limiting individuals’ chances for improvement.

• Effect on the reader: Prompts the audience to think about their role in perpetuating social inequalities and the importance of working together to create a more just society.

“At least I’m trying to tell the truth. I expect you’ve done things you’re ashamed of too”

• Speaker: Sheila Birling

• Act: 2

• Analysis: Sheila defends her honesty, acknowledging that everyone has flaws and mistakes. She is beginning to take responsibility for her actions, in contrast to her parents, who continue to deny their involvement in Eva Smith's downfall.

• Effect on the reader: Sheila’s self-awareness and willingness to confront her mistakes make her more sympathetic compared to the other characters, encouraging the audience to recognize the importance of owning up to one’s actions and learning from them.

“If we were all responsible for everything that happened to everybody…it would be very awkward, wouldn’t it.”

• Speaker: Mr. Birling

• Act: 1

• Analysis: Mr. Birling dismisses the idea of social responsibility, suggesting that it would be inconvenient to care about everyone’s well-being. His self-serving attitude reflects his belief in individualism and capitalist values.

• Effect on the reader: This statement underscores the play's critique of selfishness and social inequality, encouraging the audience to question the moral implications of ignoring collective responsibility in society.

“We did her in alright.”

• Speaker: Eric Birling

• Act: 3

• Analysis: Eric takes responsibility for his actions in contributing to Eva Smith’s death, acknowledging the severity of his role in the situation. This marks a significant moment of self-awareness and accountability for Eric.

• Effect on the reader: Eric’s admission of guilt contrasts with the denial of the other characters, highlighting the importance of personal responsibility and the consequences of one’s actions. It forces the audience to reflect on the impact of their own decisions and attitudes towards social responsibility.