Mrs. Birling: The Embodiment of Upper-Class Prejudice

Mrs. Birling stands as a stark representation of upper-class snobbery and hypocrisy in "An Inspector Calls". Her character serves as a foil to the more progressive attitudes of the younger generation, highlighting the entrenched prejudices of Edwardian society.

From the outset, Mrs. Birling is described as "her husband's social superior," emphasizing her elevated status and the importance she places on class distinctions. Her cold and callous demeanor is evident in her treatment of those she considers beneath her.

Quote: "Girls of that class."

Mrs. Birling's character is used by Priestley to critique the flaws of pre-war Edwardian society. Her unwillingness to change or show remorse for her actions exemplifies the detrimental effects of rigid class structures on social progress.

Highlight: Mrs. Birling believes it is her right to decide who is part of the "deserving poor," showcasing her misguided sense of superiority and entitlement.

Throughout the play, Mrs. Birling consistently refuses to accept any responsibility for her role in Eva Smith's death. Her hypocrisy is starkly revealed when she unknowingly condemns her own son while attempting to shift blame.

Quote: "I had done no more than my duty."

As the play progresses, Mrs. Birling's confidence begins to crumble under the Inspector's questioning. Her language becomes more fragmented, indicating the breakdown of her self-assurance and the flaws in her worldview.

Highlight: The character of Mrs. Birling is used to show the limitations and contradictions of a capitalist society, particularly when faced with the consequences of its actions.

Despite the revelations brought forth by the Inspector, Mrs. Birling remains steadfast in her refusal to acknowledge any wrongdoing, epitomizing the older generation's resistance to change.

Quote: "I did nothing I'm ashamed of."

Mrs. Birling's character serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of maintaining a rigid, class-based worldview in the face of changing social dynamics.

Eric Birling: The Path to Redemption

Eric Birling represents the potential for change and growth within the younger generation in "An Inspector Calls". His character arc demonstrates that despite past mistakes, there is always room for personal development and moral awakening.

From the beginning of the play, Eric is described as "half shy, half assertive," indicating an internal conflict and instability in his character.

Quote: "Half shy, half assertive."

Highlight: This description could be interpreted as a reflection of the 1912 society, which, like Eric, was on the verge of significant change.

As the play progresses, Eric begins to question the dismissive attitudes of his parents towards the working class. This curiosity marks the beginning of his shift away from the capitalist mindset of his upbringing.

Quote: "Why shouldn't they try for higher wages?"

Eric's growing social conscience becomes more apparent as he criticizes his father's treatment of Eva Smith:

Quote: "He could have kept her on instead of throwing her out."

This statement marks a significant shift in Eric's perspective, as he begins to grow away from the capitalist attitude under the influence of the Inspector's questioning.

Unlike his parents, Eric ultimately accepts responsibility for his actions, demonstrating a willingness to confront the consequences of his behavior:

Quote: "Whoever that chap was, the fact remains that I did what I did."

Eric's acceptance of responsibility aligns him with the younger generation, who are more open to socialist ideologies and the concept of collective social responsibility.

Highlight: Eric's character development serves as a counterpoint to his parents' rigid views, showcasing the potential for positive change in society through the younger generation.

Through Eric's journey, Priestley illustrates that redemption and personal growth are possible, even for those who have made serious mistakes in the past. His character offers hope for a more socially conscious future.

Mr. Birling: The Face of Capitalist Ideology

Mr. Birling serves as the embodiment of capitalist ideology in "An Inspector Calls", representing the antithesis of Priestley's political viewpoints. His character is used to critique the flaws and limitations of a purely profit-driven society.

Birling's confidence in the unsinkability of the Titanic is used as a powerful symbol of the shortsightedness of his capitalist worldview:

Quote: "Unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable."

Highlight: This instance of dramatic irony undermines the capitalist ideology, suggesting that just as the Titanic is destined to fail, so too is Birling's rigid economic and social philosophy.

Throughout the play, Birling attempts to use his social status to intimidate and dismiss the Inspector's inquiries:

Quote: "I was Lord Mayor."

This behavior illustrates how he takes advantage of his social position, highlighting the potential for corruption within a capitalist system.

Birling's dismissal of socialist ideas is particularly telling:

Quote: "As if we were all mixed up together like bees in a hive."

Highlight: This simile reveals Birling's disdain for the concept of social cooperation and equality. It also ironically foreshadows the eventual rise of socialist ideologies following World War II.

As part of the older generation, Birling remains steadfast in his refusal to accept responsibility or change his views:

Quote: "I can't accept any responsibility."

Birling's character serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of prioritizing profit and social status over human welfare and collective responsibility. His inability to learn or change throughout the play underscores Priestley's critique of entrenched capitalist attitudes.

Gerald Croft: The Unfulfilled Promise of Change

Gerald Croft represents a complex character in "An Inspector Calls", embodying both the potential for change and the enduring influence of traditional, capitalist values on the younger generation.

As a member of the aristocracy, Gerald was born into wealth and privilege. His character initially shows promise for growth and change, aligning him with the younger generation:

Highlight: Gerald's position between the older and younger generations makes him a pivotal character in the play's exploration of social responsibility and change.

However, Gerald ultimately disappoints the audience by failing to fully embrace the lessons presented by the Inspector. This failure illustrates the detrimental effects of ingrained capitalist values on even the more progressive members of society.

Gerald's description of Eva Smith (under her alias Daisy Renton) reveals a shallow nature typical of the upper class:

Quote: "She was young and pretty and warm hearted and intensely grateful."

Highlight: Gerald's focus on Eva's physical attributes and gratitude, rather than her character or circumstances, underscores the objectification of working-class individuals by the wealthy.

Sheila's nicknames for Gerald provide insight into his character and her initial perception of him:

Quote: "Hero" and "fairy prince"

These terms suggest an idealized view of Gerald, which is later shattered as his true nature and actions are revealed.

Gerald's character serves as a reminder that the potential for change is not always realized, even among those who seem most likely to embrace new ideas. His ultimate regression to his capitalist roots highlights the deep-rooted nature of class divisions and social prejudices in Edwardian society.

Highlight: Priestley uses Gerald's character to show how difficult it can be to break free from ingrained societal norms and class expectations, even for those who recognize the need for change.

Gerald's Character

Gerald represents the corrupting influence of inherited wealth and privilege. Despite being part of the younger generation, he ultimately fails to embrace meaningful change.

Quote: His description of Eva as "young and pretty and warm hearted and intensely grateful" reveals his superficial values.

Highlight: The nicknames "hero" and "fairy prince" create ironic contrast with his actual behavior.

Sheila Birling: A Journey of Transformation

Sheila Birling undergoes a significant transformation throughout "An Inspector Calls", evolving from a sheltered, materialistic young woman to a socially conscious individual. Her character arc serves as a powerful example of personal growth and moral awakening.

At the beginning of the play, Sheila is presented as a product of her privileged upbringing. She is described as "rather happy with life," focusing on superficial matters such as her engagement ring. Her initial language reflects her immaturity, referring to her mother as "Mummy."

Quote: "Look Mummy isn't it pretty?"

As the play progresses, Sheila's character develops dramatically. She begins to question her actions and their consequences, showing a willingness to take responsibility for her role in Eva Smith's death.

Quote: "Am I really responsible?"

Sheila's vocabulary and demeanor mature throughout the play, signifying her growing awareness and understanding of social issues. She becomes an advocate for working-class girls like Eva Smith, challenging her family's outdated views.

Quote: "These girls aren't cheap labour, they're people."

By the end of the play, Sheila emerges as a voice of reason and social conscience within her family. She actively opposes the attempt to dismiss the Inspector's message and continues to push for accountability even after his departure.

Highlight: Sheila takes on the role of the inspector once he has left, confronting her parents with their moral failings.

Quote: "You mustn't try and build up a kind of wall."

Sheila's transformation represents the potential for positive change in the younger generation. Her character embodies the shift towards a more socially conscious and empathetic society, contrasting sharply with her parents' rigid worldviews.