Mr. Birling Character Analysis
This page provides an in-depth analysis of Mr. Birling's character in An Inspector Calls, examining key quotes, language features, and Priestley's ideas.
Mr. Birling is presented as a wealthy, self-assured businessman who embodies capitalist values. His key quotes reveal his priorities and worldview:
Quote: "I'm talking as a hard-headed practical man of business"
This quote establishes Mr. Birling's self-image and values early in the play.
Quote: "A man has to make his own way - has to look after himself and his family too, of course"
This line encapsulates Mr. Birling's individualistic, capitalist philosophy.
Priestley uses several language and structural features to develop Mr. Birling's character:
• Long monologues demonstrating his self-importance
• Dramatic irony, especially regarding historical events like the Titanic and World War I
• Dismissive language like "fiddlesticks" to belittle others' ideas
• Frequent use of "I" shifting to "we" later to diminish blame
Highlight: Mr. Birling's language changes significantly when the Inspector arrives, becoming more fragmented and colloquial, revealing his loss of authority and composure.
Priestley uses Mr. Birling to criticize capitalist complacency and the older generation's resistance to change. However, he is also presented as a realistic character through his use of period-appropriate colloquial language.
Example: Mr. Birling's confidence in the "unsinkable" Titanic symbolizes how he believes his family is untouchable until the Inspector's arrival gives them a rude awakening.