The Generation Gap
The Younger Generation
• In the play, the younger generation
(Eric and Sheila) show that they are
capable of change. The express
sympathy for the strikers in Act 1 and
they also show greater sympathy for
Eva Smith. Through the play, they are
honest about their actions and refuse
to go back on what they have learnt.
• Sheila and Eric's ability to change
means that Priestley can end the play
with an element of hope. It is possible
that the next generation can make
society better. Without this, the play
would end hopelessly, with the
characters continuing to repeat their
mistakes.
The Older Generation
•_ln the play, the older generation
(Mr. & Mrs. Birling) seem
incapable of real change. They are
set in their ways and see Sheila
and Eric as "foolish" "children".
•They have little sympathy for Eva
Smith and are only sorry that she
has died because it could impact
on their lives.
• Priestley uses Mr. & Mrs. Birling
to represent old-fashioned ideas.
He discredits them, abd what they
represent, by making them look
foolish and by catching them out at
the end.
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