In J.B. Priestley’s play An Inspector Calls, Sheila Birling undergoes one of the most significant character transformations. She starts as a naive and privileged young woman but ends as someone far more aware, responsible, and morally grounded. So, how and why does Sheila change throughout the play?
Let’s break it down in simple terms—her development, the causes behind her change, and what it means in the context of the play.
Sheila at the Start of the Play
At the beginning, Sheila is:
- Playful and light-hearted
- Excited about her engagement to Gerald
- Oblivious to the harsh realities of society
- Dependent on her family’s views
She reflects the typical upper-class young woman of 1912—sheltered, polite, and unaware of the consequences of her actions.
What Causes Sheila to Change?
1. The Inspector’s Visit
Inspector Goole’s arrival is the turning point. As he questions each family member about Eva Smith’s death, Sheila is the first to take responsibility for her part.
She learns that:
- She had Eva fired from her job at Milwards, simply out of jealousy
- Her actions had real consequences for someone less privileged
- People like Eva suffer because of the carelessness of the wealthy
This shocks Sheila and triggers her guilt and self-awareness.
2. Guilt and Moral Growth
Unlike her parents, Sheila doesn’t defend herself. She says:
“It was my own fault… I know I’m to blame – and I’m desperately sorry.”
She becomes:
- Openly regretful
- Willing to learn from her mistakes
- Angry at others (like her parents) for not taking the situation seriously
Her attitude contrasts sharply with Mr. and Mrs. Birling, who are more concerned about avoiding scandal than being morally right.
How Does Sheila Change?
1. From Naive to Aware
She starts to see beyond appearances—realising the gap between rich and poor, and how actions have consequences.
2. From Passive to Assertive
She questions her parents and challenges Gerald. She says:
“You’re beginning to pretend that nothing’s really happened at all.”
This shows she’s no longer easily influenced—she thinks for herself.
3. From Selfish to Responsible
She moves from acting out of self-interest (at Milwards) to understanding her social responsibility. She adopts the Inspector’s message and wants to change.
Why Does Sheila Change?
Sheila changes because:
- She is emotionally affected by Eva’s death
- She is young and impressionable, but open to growth
- The Inspector’s message resonates deeply with her
- She realises that her privileged life has blinded her to injustice
Her change represents hope—the idea that the younger generation can learn and improve, unlike the older, stubborn characters.
Sheila’s Role in the Play’s Message
J.B. Priestley uses Sheila to represent:
- Social responsibility
- The conscience of the younger generation
- The potential for change in society
Sheila’s transformation aligns with Priestley’s socialist message: that we are all part of a community and must take responsibility for one another.
Key Quotes Showing Sheila’s Change
- “But these girls aren’t cheap labour – they’re people.”
→ Early sign of empathy and awakening. - “I behaved badly too. I know I did. I’m ashamed of it.”
→ Honest acceptance of guilt. - “It frightens me the way you talk.”
→ Frustrated by her parents’ lack of moral growth.
Conclusion
Sheila changes in An Inspector Calls from a naive and sheltered girl into a thoughtful, responsible young woman. Her journey is shaped by guilt, truth, and a growing understanding of how her actions affect others. Through Sheila, Priestley shows that real change is possible, especially when we’re willing to listen, reflect, and act with compassion.
She becomes the moral voice of the play—and a symbol of hope for a more just and caring society.
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