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26 Jun 2025

2 pages

Why Some Characters in An Inspector Calls Are Selfish & Mean: A Simple Guide

R

Racheal

@racheal_eidz

An Inspector Calls character analysis focusing on Arthur Birling, highlighting... Show more

KEEN TO
IMPRESS
Arthur
Darling
"Finchley told me it's exactly the
same port your father gets
from him ".
DISMISSIVE
"there's a lot of wild t

Arthur Birling's Key Traits and Quotes

Keen to Impress

Arthur Birling's desire to impress others is evident from the start of the play. His attempt to showcase his social status is clear in his comment about the port:

Quote: "Finchley told me it's exactly the same port your father gets from him."

This quote reveals Birling's preoccupation with social climbing and his eagerness to be seen as equal to those he considers his superiors.

Dismissive Attitude

Birling's dismissive attitude towards labour issues is a central aspect of his character, reflecting broader themes of social responsibility in the play.

Quote: "There's a lot of wild talk about possible labour trouble ...... We've passed the worst of it. Don't worry."

This statement demonstrates Birling's lack of concern for workers' rights and his belief that labour issues are insignificant, highlighting the capitalism vs socialism in An Inspector Calls theme.

Lack of Credibility

Priestley uses dramatic irony to undermine Birling's credibility, particularly through his comments about the Titanic and the likelihood of war:

Quote: "The Titanic ...... absolutely unsinkable." Quote: "Some people say that war is inevitable. And to that I say - fiddlesticks!"

These statements, which the audience knows to be false, serve to discredit Birling's judgment and foresight.

Selfish Perspective

Birling's selfish outlook is evident in his dismissal of community values:

Quote: "... as if we were all mixed up together like bees in a hive - community and all that nonsense."

This quote exemplifies Birling's selfish perspective on community and reputation, prioritizing individual success over collective well-being.

Example: Birling's attitude reflects the individualistic mindset often associated with capitalist ideology, contrasting sharply with the play's socialist themes.

Superior and Pompous Attitude

Birling's sense of superiority is evident in his treatment of workers and his aspirations for social recognition:

Quote: "If you don't come down sharply on some of these people, they'd soon be asking for the earth." Quote: "There's a fair chance I might find my way into the next Honours List."

These statements reveal Birling's belief in his own importance and his desire for social advancement, even at the expense of others.

Vocabulary: Honours List - A system of awards in the United Kingdom recognizing achievements or service to the nation.

Prioritization of Reputation

Birling's concern for his public image overshadows any moral considerations:

Quote: "I've got to cover this up as soon as I can." Quote: "When this comes out at the inquest, it isn't going to do us much good."

These quotes highlight Birling's prioritization of reputation over ethical behavior, a key theme in the play.

Right-Wing Ideology

Birling's political views align with right-wing, capitalist ideology:

Quote: "A man has to mind his own business and look after himself and his own."

This statement encapsulates Birling's belief in individual responsibility over collective welfare, contrasting with the play's socialist themes.

Definition: Right-wing ideology - Political and economic beliefs that typically emphasize individual rights, free-market capitalism, and limited government intervention.

Generational Divide

The play highlights the generational divide through Birling's interactions with younger characters:

Quote: "More money to spend and time to spare than I had when I was Eric's age." Quote: "SHEILA: You began to learn something. And now... you're ready to go on in the same way."

These quotes illustrate the contrast between Birling's outdated views and the younger generation's growing social awareness.

KEEN TO
IMPRESS
Arthur
Darling
"Finchley told me it's exactly the
same port your father gets
from him ".
DISMISSIVE
"there's a lot of wild t

Arthur Birling Character Analysis in An Inspector Calls

Arthur Birling is a central character in J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls," embodying the capitalist mindset and representing the older generation's resistance to social change. This analysis explores Birling's key traits and their significance in the play's themes.

  • Dismissive attitude towards social responsibility and labour issues
  • Prioritization of personal gain and reputation over moral considerations
  • Representation of capitalist ideology in contrast to socialist themes
  • Lack of credibility due to dramatic irony in his statements
  • Generational divide highlighted through his interactions with younger characters

Highlight: Arthur Birling's character serves as a critique of capitalist values and the older generation's resistance to social progress in early 20th century Britain.



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

 

English Literature

254

26 Jun 2025

2 pages

Why Some Characters in An Inspector Calls Are Selfish & Mean: A Simple Guide

R

Racheal

@racheal_eidz

An Inspector Calls character analysis focusing on Arthur Birling, highlighting his key traits and quotes that reveal his capitalist, dismissive, and selfish nature. The analysis explores Birling's attitude towards social responsibility, labour issues, and his prioritization of reputation over morality.

KEEN TO
IMPRESS
Arthur
Darling
"Finchley told me it's exactly the
same port your father gets
from him ".
DISMISSIVE
"there's a lot of wild t

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's Key Traits and Quotes

Keen to Impress

Arthur Birling's desire to impress others is evident from the start of the play. His attempt to showcase his social status is clear in his comment about the port:

Quote: "Finchley told me it's exactly the same port your father gets from him."

This quote reveals Birling's preoccupation with social climbing and his eagerness to be seen as equal to those he considers his superiors.

Dismissive Attitude

Birling's dismissive attitude towards labour issues is a central aspect of his character, reflecting broader themes of social responsibility in the play.

Quote: "There's a lot of wild talk about possible labour trouble ...... We've passed the worst of it. Don't worry."

This statement demonstrates Birling's lack of concern for workers' rights and his belief that labour issues are insignificant, highlighting the capitalism vs socialism in An Inspector Calls theme.

Lack of Credibility

Priestley uses dramatic irony to undermine Birling's credibility, particularly through his comments about the Titanic and the likelihood of war:

Quote: "The Titanic ...... absolutely unsinkable." Quote: "Some people say that war is inevitable. And to that I say - fiddlesticks!"

These statements, which the audience knows to be false, serve to discredit Birling's judgment and foresight.

Selfish Perspective

Birling's selfish outlook is evident in his dismissal of community values:

Quote: "... as if we were all mixed up together like bees in a hive - community and all that nonsense."

This quote exemplifies Birling's selfish perspective on community and reputation, prioritizing individual success over collective well-being.

Example: Birling's attitude reflects the individualistic mindset often associated with capitalist ideology, contrasting sharply with the play's socialist themes.

Superior and Pompous Attitude

Birling's sense of superiority is evident in his treatment of workers and his aspirations for social recognition:

Quote: "If you don't come down sharply on some of these people, they'd soon be asking for the earth." Quote: "There's a fair chance I might find my way into the next Honours List."

These statements reveal Birling's belief in his own importance and his desire for social advancement, even at the expense of others.

Vocabulary: Honours List - A system of awards in the United Kingdom recognizing achievements or service to the nation.

Prioritization of Reputation

Birling's concern for his public image overshadows any moral considerations:

Quote: "I've got to cover this up as soon as I can." Quote: "When this comes out at the inquest, it isn't going to do us much good."

These quotes highlight Birling's prioritization of reputation over ethical behavior, a key theme in the play.

Right-Wing Ideology

Birling's political views align with right-wing, capitalist ideology:

Quote: "A man has to mind his own business and look after himself and his own."

This statement encapsulates Birling's belief in individual responsibility over collective welfare, contrasting with the play's socialist themes.

Definition: Right-wing ideology - Political and economic beliefs that typically emphasize individual rights, free-market capitalism, and limited government intervention.

Generational Divide

The play highlights the generational divide through Birling's interactions with younger characters:

Quote: "More money to spend and time to spare than I had when I was Eric's age." Quote: "SHEILA: You began to learn something. And now... you're ready to go on in the same way."

These quotes illustrate the contrast between Birling's outdated views and the younger generation's growing social awareness.

KEEN TO
IMPRESS
Arthur
Darling
"Finchley told me it's exactly the
same port your father gets
from him ".
DISMISSIVE
"there's a lot of wild t

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 in An Inspector Calls

Arthur Birling is a central character in J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls," embodying the capitalist mindset and representing the older generation's resistance to social change. This analysis explores Birling's key traits and their significance in the play's themes.

  • Dismissive attitude towards social responsibility and labour issues
  • Prioritization of personal gain and reputation over moral considerations
  • Representation of capitalist ideology in contrast to socialist themes
  • Lack of credibility due to dramatic irony in his statements
  • Generational divide highlighted through his interactions with younger characters

Highlight: Arthur Birling's character serves as a critique of capitalist values and the older generation's resistance to social progress in early 20th century Britain.

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