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Jess Dodwell
25/08/2025
English Literature
An Inspector Calls: Mr Birling
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25 Aug 2025
•
Mr Birling and Mrs Birling in An Inspector Calls: Quotes, Analysis, and Character Transformation
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Mr Birling's Reaction to Eva Smith's Suicide
As the news of Eva Smith's suicide is revealed, Mr Birling's character is further developed through his dismissive and evasive reactions.
Initially, Mr Birling attempts to sidestep responsibility for his actions during the Inspector's interrogation. His evasive techniques highlight his reluctance to acknowledge any connection to Eva Smith's death.
Highlight: Mr Birling's dismissive attitude towards the suicide reveals his lack of empathy and his prioritization of self-interest over human life.
Priestley structures the text to show a shift in Mr Birling's attitude when he realizes the potential for a "public scandal". This change in demeanor exposes Mr Birling as self-centered and shallow, more concerned with his reputation than the loss of a human life.
Quote: "There'll be a public scandal."
Mr Birling's angry reaction after the Inspector's departure suggests a loss of control and a breakdown of the power he held at the beginning of the play. His emotional response implies a tacit admission of wrongdoing and a fear of potential consequences.
Vocabulary: Tacit - understood or implied without being stated
Priestley further undermines Mr Birling's moral credibility by having him claim that he will "suffer" the most from the news. This self-victimization starkly contrasts with the tragedy of Eva Smith's situation, emphasizing Mr Birling's failure to learn from the experience or embrace collective responsibility.
Mr Birling's Presentation in Act 3
In the middle of Act 3, Priestley presents Mr Birling as less confident and more vulnerable, revealing the impact of the Inspector's interrogation on his psyche.
Mr Birling's release of a "huge sigh of relief" upon learning that the Inspector was not a legitimate police officer indirectly confirms his underlying concerns about the implications of the visit. This moment exposes Mr Birling's earlier bravado as a facade, revealing his true vulnerability.
Quote: "He releases a huge sigh of relief."
Priestley uses this shift in Mr Birling's demeanor to contrast his social superiority with his moral inferiority. This juxtaposition serves as a critique of the class system, suggesting that social standing is an unreliable indicator of moral character.
Just before receiving news of another inspector's impending visit, Mr Birling adopts a mocking tone towards his children's empathy. This behavior presents him as cold and uncaring, further emphasizing his inability to learn from the experience or develop genuine compassion.
Highlight: Mr Birling's ridicule of the younger generation's empathy reveals his outdated views and resistance to change.
By the end of the play, Mr Birling's character arc demonstrates the consequences of rigid adherence to capitalist ideals and the failure to embrace social responsibility. Priestley uses this transformation to critique societal structures and promote a more compassionate, collectively responsible approach to human relationships.
Mr Birling's Presentation at the Beginning of Act 1
At the start of Act 1, Mr Birling is introduced as a self-important and confident character during the celebration of Sheila Birling and Gerald Croft's engagement.
Priestley presents Mr Birling as a man who defines himself by his business success and economic prowess. He describes himself as a "hard-headed, practical" man, emphasizing his belief in his own authority on worldly and economic matters. This self-description reveals Mr Birling's pride in his perceived success and importance.
Quote: "I'm a hard-headed, practical man of business."
Mr Birling's focus on business and economic success is further emphasized when he refers to himself as a "man of business". This characterization suggests that he views his professional achievements as the most important aspect of his identity.
Highlight: Priestley uses Mr Birling's self-description to reveal his narrow-minded and unempathetic approach to life and relationships.
The author presents Mr Birling's capitalist ideology through his statement that "a man has to mind his own business". This belief system prioritizes individual success over collective well-being, setting up a contrast with the Inspector's later emphasis on social responsibility.
Example: Mr Birling's advice to "look after himself" demonstrates his individualistic worldview, which Priestley critiques throughout the play.
Priestley uses Mr Birling's character to represent the flaws in capitalist thinking, setting the stage for the moral examination that unfolds throughout the play.
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The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
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very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
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I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
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THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
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This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
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The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
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Mr Birling and Mrs Birling in An Inspector Calls: Quotes, Analysis, and Character Transformation
Mr Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls" evolves throughout the play, revealing his flaws and the consequences of his actions. This analysis explores his presentation at different stages, highlighting his transformation and Priestley's critique of capitalist ideals.... Show more
Mr Birling's Reaction to Eva Smith's Suicide
As the news of Eva Smith's suicide is revealed, Mr Birling's character is further developed through his dismissive and evasive reactions.
Initially, Mr Birling attempts to sidestep responsibility for his actions during the Inspector's interrogation. His evasive techniques highlight his reluctance to acknowledge any connection to Eva Smith's death.
Highlight: Mr Birling's dismissive attitude towards the suicide reveals his lack of empathy and his prioritization of self-interest over human life.
Priestley structures the text to show a shift in Mr Birling's attitude when he realizes the potential for a "public scandal". This change in demeanor exposes Mr Birling as self-centered and shallow, more concerned with his reputation than the loss of a human life.
Quote: "There'll be a public scandal."
Mr Birling's angry reaction after the Inspector's departure suggests a loss of control and a breakdown of the power he held at the beginning of the play. His emotional response implies a tacit admission of wrongdoing and a fear of potential consequences.
Vocabulary: Tacit - understood or implied without being stated
Priestley further undermines Mr Birling's moral credibility by having him claim that he will "suffer" the most from the news. This self-victimization starkly contrasts with the tragedy of Eva Smith's situation, emphasizing Mr Birling's failure to learn from the experience or embrace collective responsibility.
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Mr Birling's Presentation in Act 3
In the middle of Act 3, Priestley presents Mr Birling as less confident and more vulnerable, revealing the impact of the Inspector's interrogation on his psyche.
Mr Birling's release of a "huge sigh of relief" upon learning that the Inspector was not a legitimate police officer indirectly confirms his underlying concerns about the implications of the visit. This moment exposes Mr Birling's earlier bravado as a facade, revealing his true vulnerability.
Quote: "He releases a huge sigh of relief."
Priestley uses this shift in Mr Birling's demeanor to contrast his social superiority with his moral inferiority. This juxtaposition serves as a critique of the class system, suggesting that social standing is an unreliable indicator of moral character.
Just before receiving news of another inspector's impending visit, Mr Birling adopts a mocking tone towards his children's empathy. This behavior presents him as cold and uncaring, further emphasizing his inability to learn from the experience or develop genuine compassion.
Highlight: Mr Birling's ridicule of the younger generation's empathy reveals his outdated views and resistance to change.
By the end of the play, Mr Birling's character arc demonstrates the consequences of rigid adherence to capitalist ideals and the failure to embrace social responsibility. Priestley uses this transformation to critique societal structures and promote a more compassionate, collectively responsible approach to human relationships.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Mr Birling's Presentation at the Beginning of Act 1
At the start of Act 1, Mr Birling is introduced as a self-important and confident character during the celebration of Sheila Birling and Gerald Croft's engagement.
Priestley presents Mr Birling as a man who defines himself by his business success and economic prowess. He describes himself as a "hard-headed, practical" man, emphasizing his belief in his own authority on worldly and economic matters. This self-description reveals Mr Birling's pride in his perceived success and importance.
Quote: "I'm a hard-headed, practical man of business."
Mr Birling's focus on business and economic success is further emphasized when he refers to himself as a "man of business". This characterization suggests that he views his professional achievements as the most important aspect of his identity.
Highlight: Priestley uses Mr Birling's self-description to reveal his narrow-minded and unempathetic approach to life and relationships.
The author presents Mr Birling's capitalist ideology through his statement that "a man has to mind his own business". This belief system prioritizes individual success over collective well-being, setting up a contrast with the Inspector's later emphasis on social responsibility.
Example: Mr Birling's advice to "look after himself" demonstrates his individualistic worldview, which Priestley critiques throughout the play.
Priestley uses Mr Birling's character to represent the flaws in capitalist thinking, setting the stage for the moral examination that unfolds throughout the play.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
marriage in a thousand splendid suns mind map
174
6
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user