Mrs Birlingin "An Inspector Calls" is a cold, unsympathetic... Show more
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19 Sept 2022
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An Inspector Calls: Mrs Birling Quotes, Actions, and Character Analysis
Jasmin Khatri
@jasminkhatri_
Mrs Birling's Role and Characterization
Mrs Birling serves as a dramatic device in "An Inspector Calls", representing the attitudes of an Edwardian upper-class woman. Her character is crucial in highlighting the social issues Priestley aimed to critique.
Social Superiority
Mrs Birling views herself as socially superior to the lower classes. This is evident in her interactions and dialogue throughout the play.
Example: She corrects her husband's social manners, saying "Arthur, you're not supposed to say such things" when he thanks the maid for dinner.
She also attempts to intimidate the Inspector by mentioning her husband's social position:
Quote: "You know of course that my husband was Lord Mayor only two years ago and that he's still a magistrate."
Arrogance and Prejudice
Mrs Birling's arrogance is displayed in her belief that she is qualified to judge what is "respectable" and "deserving". Her prejudice against the lower classes is clear in her treatment of Eva Smith.
Quote: "I didn't like her manner. She was giving herself ridiculous airs."
Lack of Awareness
An important aspect of Mrs Birling's character is her apparent lack of awareness of the realities around her. This could be interpreted as deliberate ignorance rather than genuine unawareness.
Highlight: Mrs Birling's reaction to learning about Eric's involvement in Eva's pregnancy demonstrates her hypocrisy and selective blindness.
Resistance to Change
Unlike some other characters, Mrs Birling does not change or learn from the Inspector's revelations. Her attitude remains hardened throughout the play.
Quote: "I was the only one of you who didn't give in to him."
This resistance to change underscores Priestley's critique of the rigid class system and the unwillingness of some to acknowledge their social responsibilities.
Mrs Birling's Treatment of Eva Smith and Character Development
Mrs Birling's Interaction with Eva Smith
Mrs Birling's treatment of Eva Smith is a crucial element in "An Inspector Calls". Her actions towards Eva highlight her prejudices and lack of empathy.
Highlight: Mrs Birling turned Eva Smith away from her charity when she desperately needed help.
Mrs Birling's justification for her actions reveals her deep-seated class prejudice:
Quote: "She was claiming elaborate feelings and scruples that were simply absurd in a girl in her position."
Perception of Eva's Situation
Mrs Birling's view of Eva's pregnancy out of wedlock demonstrates her rigid moral standards and lack of compassion:
Quote: "As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!"
This statement shows that Mrs Birling automatically assumes Eva is morally corrupt due to her circumstances.
Character Development
Unlike some characters in the play, Mrs Birling does not undergo significant character development. She remains largely unchanged by the Inspector's revelations.
Highlight: Mrs Birling is presented throughout the play as a narrow-minded, patronizing, and arrogant character.
Her refusal to accept any responsibility for Eva's death, even after learning of her son's involvement, underscores her inability to change:
Quote: "I accept no blame for it at all."
Priestley's Critique
Through Mrs Birling's character, Priestley critiques the unfair distribution of power in Edwardian society and its corrupting influence. Her unwillingness to change or accept responsibility serves as a stark contrast to characters like Sheila, highlighting the generational divide in attitudes towards social responsibility.
Analysis: Mrs Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls" serves as a powerful critique of upper-class attitudes and the lack of social responsibility in Edwardian society. Her treatment of Eva Smith and her resistance to change throughout the play underscore Priestley's themes of class prejudice, gender roles, and the need for collective responsibility.
Mrs Birling's Character and Key Themes
Mrs Birling is a central character in J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls". Her portrayal is deeply intertwined with key themes of the play, particularly those of class, gender, and social responsibility.
Class Prejudice
Mrs Birling's attitude towards Eva Smith exemplifies the class prejudice prevalent in Edwardian society. She dismisses Eva as "a girl of that class", revealing her deeply ingrained snobbery.
Quote: "As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!"
This quote demonstrates Mrs Birling's assumption that working-class individuals are inherently greedy and lack moral principles.
Gender Roles
Mrs Birling embodies traditional Edwardian views on gender roles. Despite not having a job herself, she judges Eva harshly for her circumstances.
Quote: "She was claiming elaborate fine feelings and scruples that were simply absurd in a girl in her position."
This statement reveals Mrs Birling's belief that working-class women should not aspire to have complex emotions or moral standards.
Social Responsibility
Mrs Birling's refusal to accept any responsibility for Eva's fate is a central aspect of her character.
Quote: "I accept no blame for it at all."
Her insistence that she "did her duty" by turning Eva away from her charity highlights the theme of social responsibility, or lack thereof, among the upper classes.
Highlight: Mrs Birling's character serves as a critique of the wealthy's indifference to the struggles of the working class.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
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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
An Inspector Calls: Mrs Birling Quotes, Actions, and Character Analysis
Jasmin Khatri
@jasminkhatri_
Mrs Birlingin "An Inspector Calls" is a cold, unsympathetic character who represents the upper-class attitudes of Edwardian society. She embodies themes of social responsibility, class prejudice, and gender roles. Throughout the play, Mrs Birling refuses to accept any blame... Show more
Mrs Birling's Role and Characterization
Mrs Birling serves as a dramatic device in "An Inspector Calls", representing the attitudes of an Edwardian upper-class woman. Her character is crucial in highlighting the social issues Priestley aimed to critique.
Social Superiority
Mrs Birling views herself as socially superior to the lower classes. This is evident in her interactions and dialogue throughout the play.
Example: She corrects her husband's social manners, saying "Arthur, you're not supposed to say such things" when he thanks the maid for dinner.
She also attempts to intimidate the Inspector by mentioning her husband's social position:
Quote: "You know of course that my husband was Lord Mayor only two years ago and that he's still a magistrate."
Arrogance and Prejudice
Mrs Birling's arrogance is displayed in her belief that she is qualified to judge what is "respectable" and "deserving". Her prejudice against the lower classes is clear in her treatment of Eva Smith.
Quote: "I didn't like her manner. She was giving herself ridiculous airs."
Lack of Awareness
An important aspect of Mrs Birling's character is her apparent lack of awareness of the realities around her. This could be interpreted as deliberate ignorance rather than genuine unawareness.
Highlight: Mrs Birling's reaction to learning about Eric's involvement in Eva's pregnancy demonstrates her hypocrisy and selective blindness.
Resistance to Change
Unlike some other characters, Mrs Birling does not change or learn from the Inspector's revelations. Her attitude remains hardened throughout the play.
Quote: "I was the only one of you who didn't give in to him."
This resistance to change underscores Priestley's critique of the rigid class system and the unwillingness of some to acknowledge their social responsibilities.
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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Mrs Birling's Treatment of Eva Smith and Character Development
Mrs Birling's Interaction with Eva Smith
Mrs Birling's treatment of Eva Smith is a crucial element in "An Inspector Calls". Her actions towards Eva highlight her prejudices and lack of empathy.
Highlight: Mrs Birling turned Eva Smith away from her charity when she desperately needed help.
Mrs Birling's justification for her actions reveals her deep-seated class prejudice:
Quote: "She was claiming elaborate feelings and scruples that were simply absurd in a girl in her position."
Perception of Eva's Situation
Mrs Birling's view of Eva's pregnancy out of wedlock demonstrates her rigid moral standards and lack of compassion:
Quote: "As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!"
This statement shows that Mrs Birling automatically assumes Eva is morally corrupt due to her circumstances.
Character Development
Unlike some characters in the play, Mrs Birling does not undergo significant character development. She remains largely unchanged by the Inspector's revelations.
Highlight: Mrs Birling is presented throughout the play as a narrow-minded, patronizing, and arrogant character.
Her refusal to accept any responsibility for Eva's death, even after learning of her son's involvement, underscores her inability to change:
Quote: "I accept no blame for it at all."
Priestley's Critique
Through Mrs Birling's character, Priestley critiques the unfair distribution of power in Edwardian society and its corrupting influence. Her unwillingness to change or accept responsibility serves as a stark contrast to characters like Sheila, highlighting the generational divide in attitudes towards social responsibility.
Analysis: Mrs Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls" serves as a powerful critique of upper-class attitudes and the lack of social responsibility in Edwardian society. Her treatment of Eva Smith and her resistance to change throughout the play underscore Priestley's themes of class prejudice, gender roles, and the need for collective responsibility.
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
Mrs Birling's Character and Key Themes
Mrs Birling is a central character in J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls". Her portrayal is deeply intertwined with key themes of the play, particularly those of class, gender, and social responsibility.
Class Prejudice
Mrs Birling's attitude towards Eva Smith exemplifies the class prejudice prevalent in Edwardian society. She dismisses Eva as "a girl of that class", revealing her deeply ingrained snobbery.
Quote: "As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!"
This quote demonstrates Mrs Birling's assumption that working-class individuals are inherently greedy and lack moral principles.
Gender Roles
Mrs Birling embodies traditional Edwardian views on gender roles. Despite not having a job herself, she judges Eva harshly for her circumstances.
Quote: "She was claiming elaborate fine feelings and scruples that were simply absurd in a girl in her position."
This statement reveals Mrs Birling's belief that working-class women should not aspire to have complex emotions or moral standards.
Social Responsibility
Mrs Birling's refusal to accept any responsibility for Eva's fate is a central aspect of her character.
Quote: "I accept no blame for it at all."
Her insistence that she "did her duty" by turning Eva away from her charity highlights the theme of social responsibility, or lack thereof, among the upper classes.
Highlight: Mrs Birling's character serves as a critique of the wealthy's indifference to the struggles of the working class.
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