The Inspector's Interrogation Begins

Inspector Goole begins questioning the family about their connections to Eva Smith, the young woman who committed suicide. His methodical approach is evident as he states, "One person and one line of enquiry at a time. Otherwise there's a muddle."

Mr. Birling is the first to be interrogated. He admits to firing Eva from his factory when she led a strike for higher wages. He justifies his actions, saying "The girl had been causing trouble in the works. It was quite justified." This reveals his prioritization of profits over workers' wellbeing.

Quote: "If we were all responsible for everything that happened to everybody we'd had anything to do with, it would be very awkward." - Mr. Birling

Sheila is questioned next. She confesses to having Eva fired from her job at Milwards department store out of jealousy and spite. Unlike her father, Sheila shows genuine remorse for her actions.

Quote: "But I felt rotten about it at the time and now I feel a lot worse." - Sheila

The Inspector's questioning technique becomes clear - he already knows the answers but forces the family to admit their involvement themselves. This creates tension and suspense as the characters realize the extent of the Inspector's knowledge.

Highlight: The contrast between Mr. Birling's lack of remorse and Sheila's genuine regret highlights the generational divide in attitudes towards social responsibility.

Mrs. Birling's Involvement and Eric's Secret

The Inspector turns to Mrs. Birling, revealing that she encountered Eva Smith in her role on a charitable committee. Mrs. Birling admits to denying Eva aid when she came seeking help, pregnant and desperate.

Mrs. Birling's lack of empathy is evident in her statement:

Quote: "I'm very sorry. But I think she had only herself to blame." - Mrs. Birling

She justifies her actions based on class prejudice, referring dismissively to "Girls of that class." The Inspector challenges her attitudes, breaking down the "wall" she tries to build between herself and Eva.

As the questioning progresses, it becomes clear that Eric, the Birling's son, is implicated in Eva's pregnancy. This revelation shocks the family, particularly Mrs. Birling, who had just insisted that the father of Eva's child should be held responsible.

Quote: "Go and look for the father of the child. It's his responsibility." - Mrs. Birling

The dramatic irony of Mrs. Birling condemning her own son without realizing it creates intense tension. Sheila, showing growing awareness, recognizes the cruelty of her mother's actions:

Quote: "Mother, I think it was cruel and vile." - Sheila

Highlight: Mrs. Birling's involvement reveals the callousness of the upper classes towards the struggles of the poor, while the revelation about Eric sets up the final confrontation of the play.