Mr. Birling
Mr. Birling is portrayed as a selfish and money-driven man who only cares about himself and his family. He is unmoved even after the Inspector leaves and continues to prioritize his business and financial interests over everything else. He views his daughter Sheila's marriage to Gerald in terms of a business deal, showing his lack of concern for anything other than his own class and financial standing.
Mrs. Birling
Mrs. Birling is depicted as a woman who is more concerned about her social status and reputation than the well-being of others. She turns Eva Smith away when she seeks help from a charity, and only involves herself in charity work to appear favorable to others in her class. She shares Mr. Birling's lack of empathy and does not change her ways even after the Inspector leaves, showing a lack of remorse for Eva's fate.
Eva Smith
Eva Smith is described as a smart and pregnant woman who experiences hardships in her working-class life. She faced mistreatment at the hands of Mr. Birling, lost her job, and eventually took her own life. Her character symbolizes the struggles faced by the working class and the hardships that many individuals like her had to endure during that time.
Sheila Birling
Sheila Birling undergoes significant character development throughout the play. She starts off as a jealous and immature woman, only concerned with her own life and social status. However, she evolves to acknowledge the mistreatment of people in the working class, recognizing the validity of the Inspector's message and showing a willingness to change.
The Inspector
The Inspector is the character who brings forth the important theme of social responsibility. He serves as the voice of morality and aims to hold individuals accountable for their actions. He encourages the characters, as well as the audience, to consider the impact of their behavior on others and to take responsibility regardless of their social class.
Eric Birling
Eric Birling is depicted as a troubled and irresponsible young man who ultimately realizes the consequences of his actions and shows remorse for his behavior. He is the only one who takes immediate responsibility for his involvement in Eva Smith's tragedy.
Gerald Croft
Gerald Croft is portrayed as a man of privilege who engages in an affair with Eva Smith, highlighting the abuse of power and privilege in the upper class. He shows a lack of responsibility for his actions, choosing to ignore the Inspector's message and forgetting Eva Smith after ceasing to see her.
