Sheila Birling in an Inspector Calls

How does Shelia develop during the play?

Throughout scene 1 Sheila is more concerned about property and power rather than being interested in the community.   However Sheila changes during the play and becomes a strong willed woman more over she believes in socialist views and fights for equality between sexes. J.B Priestly wants to show the audience that capitalist views are erroneous and that fairness over rules.
Priestley uses dramatic irony throughout “An Inspector Calls” as a dramatic device. He expresses his views about socialism through the character of Sheila. Priestley wants to put across the right message for the audience. During the act 1 Sheila holds being the “feeble” sex and relies on her fiancé as she represents herself as being powerless. “I can’t’ drink to that. When do I drink?” This shows us that Sheila is unable to make her own verdict furthermore must turn to Gerald for Guidance. Priestley wants to show the audience that women in the 1910’s counted on men along with being powerless. Sheila is what’s more materialistic and believes in products that show wealth and power. “I think it’s perfect. Now I really feel engaged” This illustrates to us that Sheila has been brought up by the Capitalist manner, In addition implies that Sheila requires evidence to verify her love moreover her connection together with Gerald. Priestley wants to demonstrate to the spectators that capitalists were centred in hierarchy as well as resources.
Towards the end of act 1, Sheila gains more self-assurance to have a sturdy word. Therefore tolerates Gerald, in addition humiliates him. “Why – you fool – he knows. Of course he knows.” This proves to the audience that Sheila has over powered Gerald and has supplementary reversed the role in their relationship. Priestley wants to show us that women can stand up for themselves plus that equality between sexes is valuable. Sheila behaves in a Socialist fashion, “it was my fault”. Sheila takes the responsibility for her...