An Inspector Calls character analysis: The Birling family's flaws... Show more
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
26
0
Ella Parker
31/08/2025
English Literature
An Inspector Calls
828
•
31 Aug 2025
•
An Inspector Calls: Character Analysis and Key Quotes
Ella Parker
@ellaparker_cqpv
1 / 4
Eric Birling Character Analysis
Eric Birling is portrayed as a young man in his early twenties, struggling with his place in society and his family's expectations.
Quote: "I think it's a shame. We try for the highest profits. Why shouldn't they try for the highest wages?"
This statement reveals Eric's emerging socialist views and his willingness to challenge his father's capitalist ideals.
Eric Birling's quotes often demonstrate his impulsive nature and lack of control:
Quote: "And I don't even remember - that's the hellish thing. Oh - my God!"
This outburst shows Eric's growing realization of his actions and their consequences.
Highlight: Eric represents the younger generation's views and serves as a voice of hope and change in the play.
Eric Birling's quotes in Act 1 begin to hint at his troubled relationship with alcohol and his father:
Quote: "He should've kept her on instead of throwing her out."
This comment foreshadows Eric's involvement with Eva Smith and his criticism of his father's business practices.
Vocabulary: Colloquial - Eric's use of informal language, such as "chap," makes his actions seem less serious initially.
Sheila Birling Character Analysis
Sheila Birling is introduced as a young woman in her twenties, initially pleased with her life and engagement to Gerald.
Quote: "Because I remember what he said, how he looked, and what he made me feel. Fire and blood and anguish."
This powerful statement demonstrates Sheila's transformation throughout the play, as she fully comprehends the Inspector's message.
Sheila Birling's key quotes often reveal her growing awareness and maturity:
Quote: "We often do it on the young ones. They're more impressionable."
This self-aware comment shows Sheila's understanding of her own past behavior and her potential for change.
Highlight: Sheila represents the possibility of societal improvement through individual responsibility and change.
Sheila's character development is central to the play's themes:
Quote: "I'll never let it out of my sight for an instant."
This line, referring to her engagement ring, foreshadows the secrets that will come to light and contrasts with her later decision to question her relationship with Gerald.
Example: Sheila's response to Gerald's attempt to dismiss the evening's events - "It's too soon. I must think." - demonstrates her newfound independence and critical thinking.
Sybil Birling Character Analysis
Mrs Birling is presented as a cold woman in her fifties, socially superior to her husband. Her character is used by Priestley to critique social hierarchies and class divisions.
Quote: "Girls of that class"
This dismissive statement reveals Mrs Birling's prejudiced views and lack of empathy for those of lower social status.
Highlight: Priestley constructs Mrs Birling's character to attack social hierarchies and demonstrate the need for a welfare state.
Mrs Birling's quotes and analysis often expose her hypocrisy:
Quote: "The girl had begun by telling us a pack of lies."
This statement is ironic, as Mrs Birling's role in a charity organization should involve helping girls like Eva, yet she speaks inconsiderately and turns her away.
Example: The Inspector reveals Mrs Birling's part in Eva's suicide before Eric's involvement is disclosed, building tension and emphasizing the impact of her actions.
Quote: "If the girl's death is due to anyone, it's due to him."
This dramatic irony foreshadows the revelation of Eric's involvement and highlights Mrs Birling's inability to recognize her own responsibility in Eva's death.
Arthur Birling Character Analysis
Mr Birling is presented as a wealthy, middle-aged businessman with provincial manners in An Inspector Calls. His character serves as a representation of capitalist ideals and outdated views.
Quote: "That man has to mind his own business, and look after himself and his own"
This quote exemplifies Mr Birling's selfish worldview, which is challenged throughout the play.
Highlight: Priestley uses Mr Birling's character to critique capitalist ideas and demonstrate their flaws.
Mr Birling's confidence in his beliefs is shaken by the Inspector's arrival, which occurs immediately after he expresses his views. This timing suggests a supernatural element to the Inspector's role.
Example: Mr Birling treats Sheila's marriage as a business transaction, further emphasizing his capitalist mindset.
The language used by Mr Birling often echoes that of real-world politicians, connecting the character to broader societal issues.
Quote: "I'm talking as a hard-headed man of business."
This statement reveals Mr Birling's pride in his business acumen, which he values above all else.
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.
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
An Inspector Calls: Character Analysis and Key Quotes
Ella Parker
@ellaparker_cqpv
An Inspector Calls character analysis: The Birling family's flaws and transformation
- Explores the characters of Arthur Birling, Eric Birling, Sheila Birling, and Sybil Birling
- Highlights key quotes and their significance in revealing character traits and development
- Examines how each... Show more
Eric Birling Character Analysis
Eric Birling is portrayed as a young man in his early twenties, struggling with his place in society and his family's expectations.
Quote: "I think it's a shame. We try for the highest profits. Why shouldn't they try for the highest wages?"
This statement reveals Eric's emerging socialist views and his willingness to challenge his father's capitalist ideals.
Eric Birling's quotes often demonstrate his impulsive nature and lack of control:
Quote: "And I don't even remember - that's the hellish thing. Oh - my God!"
This outburst shows Eric's growing realization of his actions and their consequences.
Highlight: Eric represents the younger generation's views and serves as a voice of hope and change in the play.
Eric Birling's quotes in Act 1 begin to hint at his troubled relationship with alcohol and his father:
Quote: "He should've kept her on instead of throwing her out."
This comment foreshadows Eric's involvement with Eva Smith and his criticism of his father's business practices.
Vocabulary: Colloquial - Eric's use of informal language, such as "chap," makes his actions seem less serious initially.
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
Sheila Birling Character Analysis
Sheila Birling is introduced as a young woman in her twenties, initially pleased with her life and engagement to Gerald.
Quote: "Because I remember what he said, how he looked, and what he made me feel. Fire and blood and anguish."
This powerful statement demonstrates Sheila's transformation throughout the play, as she fully comprehends the Inspector's message.
Sheila Birling's key quotes often reveal her growing awareness and maturity:
Quote: "We often do it on the young ones. They're more impressionable."
This self-aware comment shows Sheila's understanding of her own past behavior and her potential for change.
Highlight: Sheila represents the possibility of societal improvement through individual responsibility and change.
Sheila's character development is central to the play's themes:
Quote: "I'll never let it out of my sight for an instant."
This line, referring to her engagement ring, foreshadows the secrets that will come to light and contrasts with her later decision to question her relationship with Gerald.
Example: Sheila's response to Gerald's attempt to dismiss the evening's events - "It's too soon. I must think." - demonstrates her newfound independence and critical thinking.
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
Sybil Birling Character Analysis
Mrs Birling is presented as a cold woman in her fifties, socially superior to her husband. Her character is used by Priestley to critique social hierarchies and class divisions.
Quote: "Girls of that class"
This dismissive statement reveals Mrs Birling's prejudiced views and lack of empathy for those of lower social status.
Highlight: Priestley constructs Mrs Birling's character to attack social hierarchies and demonstrate the need for a welfare state.
Mrs Birling's quotes and analysis often expose her hypocrisy:
Quote: "The girl had begun by telling us a pack of lies."
This statement is ironic, as Mrs Birling's role in a charity organization should involve helping girls like Eva, yet she speaks inconsiderately and turns her away.
Example: The Inspector reveals Mrs Birling's part in Eva's suicide before Eric's involvement is disclosed, building tension and emphasizing the impact of her actions.
Quote: "If the girl's death is due to anyone, it's due to him."
This dramatic irony foreshadows the revelation of Eric's involvement and highlights Mrs Birling's inability to recognize her own responsibility in Eva's death.
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
Arthur Birling Character Analysis
Mr Birling is presented as a wealthy, middle-aged businessman with provincial manners in An Inspector Calls. His character serves as a representation of capitalist ideals and outdated views.
Quote: "That man has to mind his own business, and look after himself and his own"
This quote exemplifies Mr Birling's selfish worldview, which is challenged throughout the play.
Highlight: Priestley uses Mr Birling's character to critique capitalist ideas and demonstrate their flaws.
Mr Birling's confidence in his beliefs is shaken by the Inspector's arrival, which occurs immediately after he expresses his views. This timing suggests a supernatural element to the Inspector's role.
Example: Mr Birling treats Sheila's marriage as a business transaction, further emphasizing his capitalist mindset.
The language used by Mr Birling often echoes that of real-world politicians, connecting the character to broader societal issues.
Quote: "I'm talking as a hard-headed man of business."
This statement reveals Mr Birling's pride in his business acumen, which he values above all else.
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.
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