The Birling Family: Power and Prejudice

Mr Birling represents the worst of capitalism and upper-class attitudes. His quote "I speak as a hard headed businessman" shows how he prioritises profit over people. When he callously refers to "the wretched girl's suicide," he reveals his complete lack of social responsibility - ironically, the very attitude that contributed to Eva's death.

His line about coming down "harshly on these people" exposes his class prejudice. Birling believes working-class people like Eva don't deserve fair treatment because they're supposedly less intelligent than him.

Mrs Birling is equally unsympathetic, constantly shifting blame onto others. Her demand to "go and look for the father of the child" shows her refusal to accept any responsibility for Eva's tragedy. She looks down on "girls of that class," highlighting the rigid social hierarchy that Priestley criticises.

Key Point: Both older Birlings use their class status to avoid taking responsibility for their harmful actions.

The Younger Generation and Gerald

Sheila starts off immature, calling her mother "mummy" despite being in her twenties. However, she develops the most throughout the play. Her realisation that "these girls aren't cheap labour - they're people" shows genuine growth in understanding social responsibility.

Eric reveals problematic attitudes about gender roles, stereotyping women as being "potty" about clothes. His excuse that he was "in that state where a chap easily turns nasty" shows how he uses his gender to justify terrible behaviour. His criticism of his father reveals the family's dysfunction.

Gerald refuses to accept responsibility, claiming he doesn't "come into this suicide business." Like Eric, he uses gender to justify his actions, suggesting "nearly any man would have done" the same. His objectification of Eva reflects his class superiority and sense of entitlement.

Inspector Goole serves as Priestley's moral voice, declaring "we are members of one body" - the play's central message about collective responsibility in society.

Remember: The younger characters (Sheila and Eric) show more capacity for change than the older generation.