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2 Jul 2025
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Mr Birling and Mrs Birling: Analyzing Characters and Themes in An Inspector Calls
Ellie-May
@elliemay_eecd
Mrs Birling: The Embodiment of Social Snobbery
Mrs Birling represents the upper-class prejudices and social snobbery prevalent in early 20th-century British society. Her character is defined by her unwavering belief in class distinctions and her cold-hearted approach to those she considers beneath her.
Key traits that characterize Mrs Birling include:
- Arrogance
- Cold-heartedness
- Snobbery
- Imprudence
- Conceit
- Overbearing nature
Her unyielding attitude is evident in her statements:
Quote: "You're quite wrong to suppose I shall regret what I did."
This quote demonstrates Mrs Birling's obstinacy and her refusal to acknowledge any wrongdoing, even in the face of the Inspector's questioning.
Quote: "I don't suppose for a moment we can understand why the girl committed suicide. Girls of that class—"
This statement reveals Mrs Birling's deep-seated class prejudice and her inability to empathize with those from lower social strata.
Highlight: Priestley uses Mrs Birling's character to critique the selfish attitudes of the privileged classes and their moral blindness.
Mrs Birling's role in the family dynamics reflects the gender norms of the time, where she accepts her husband's dominance while wielding her own form of power through social influence and class-based judgments.
Vocabulary: Social snobbery refers to the attitude of looking down on those considered to be of a lower social class or status.
The character of Mrs Birling serves as a stark representation of the resistance to social change and the perpetuation of class divisions that Priestley sought to challenge through his play.
The Birlings and Themes of Responsibility
Both Mr and Mrs Birling's characters are central to the exploration of responsibility in "An Inspector Calls." Their refusal to accept blame for their actions against Eva Smith forms a crucial part of the play's moral message.
Key aspects of their approach to responsibility include:
- Immediate rejection of blame
- Attempts to justify their actions
- Dismissal of the Inspector's authority
- Prioritization of personal and social status over moral obligations
Example: Mr Birling's concern about his potential knighthood overshadowing his sense of responsibility for Eva Smith's fate illustrates the conflict between personal ambition and social duty.
The Inspector's investigation serves to challenge the Birlings' worldview, forcing them to confront the consequences of their actions and the interconnectedness of society.
Highlight: The play's structure, with the Inspector methodically revealing each character's involvement, emphasizes the theme of collective responsibility.
Priestley uses the Birlings to critique the capitalist system and the attitudes of the upper classes, suggesting that true progress and social harmony can only be achieved when individuals accept their responsibility to others, regardless of class distinctions.
Definition: Collective responsibility refers to the idea that a group or society as a whole is responsible for the actions and consequences that affect its members.
Through the characters of Mr and Mrs Birling, "An Inspector Calls" presents a powerful examination of social justice, moral responsibility, and the need for empathy across class boundaries in early 20th-century British society.
Page 4: Mrs Birling's Social Context
What does Mrs Birling represent in terms of class prejudice and social responsibility becomes clear through her actions and attitudes.
Quote: "Girls of that class" - Reveals her deeply ingrained class prejudice and dehumanization of working-class people.
Highlight: Priestley uses Mrs Birling to critique:
- The privileged classes' selfish attitudes
- Social snobbery and class discrimination
- Gender inequality in early 20th century Britain
Example: Her refusal to help Eva Smith, despite heading a women's charity, exemplifies the hypocrisy of upper-class philanthropy.
Mr Birling: The Capitalist Patriarch
Mr Birling stands as the epitome of capitalist success in "An Inspector Calls." As the head of the Birling household and a successful businessman, he embodies the values of profit-driven society. His character is marked by arrogance, insensitivity, and a reluctance to accept responsibility for his actions.
Highlight: Mr Birling's potential knighthood underscores his focus on social status and public image.
Key traits that define Mr Birling include:
- Arrogance
- Insensitivity
- Pompousness
- Cunning
- Impatience
- Dishonesty
His dismissive attitude towards responsibility is evident in his statements:
Quote: "I can't accept any responsibility."
This quote reveals Mr Birling's immediate rejection of blame, highlighting his selfish nature and unwillingness to acknowledge the consequences of his actions.
Quote: "There's every excuse for what both your mother and I did!"
Here, Mr Birling attempts to justify his actions, demonstrating his refusal to accept guilt or take responsibility for his role in Eva Smith's fate.
Example: Mr Birling's prediction about the impossibility of war showcases his overconfidence and lack of foresight, as seen in the quote "Say there isn't a chance of War."
Mr Birling's character is deeply rooted in the context of a patriarchal society, where his role as a business owner and family patriarch gives him significant power and influence.
Definition: Patriarchy refers to a social system where men hold primary power and predominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.
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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
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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
Mr Birling and Mrs Birling: Analyzing Characters and Themes in An Inspector Calls
Ellie-May
@elliemay_eecd
Mr and Mrs Birling's character analysis in An Inspector Calls reveals their roles as representatives of capitalist society and social inequality in early 20th century Britain.
Key points:
- Mr Birling embodies the ruthless businessman focused solely on profit and social... Show more
Mrs Birling: The Embodiment of Social Snobbery
Mrs Birling represents the upper-class prejudices and social snobbery prevalent in early 20th-century British society. Her character is defined by her unwavering belief in class distinctions and her cold-hearted approach to those she considers beneath her.
Key traits that characterize Mrs Birling include:
- Arrogance
- Cold-heartedness
- Snobbery
- Imprudence
- Conceit
- Overbearing nature
Her unyielding attitude is evident in her statements:
Quote: "You're quite wrong to suppose I shall regret what I did."
This quote demonstrates Mrs Birling's obstinacy and her refusal to acknowledge any wrongdoing, even in the face of the Inspector's questioning.
Quote: "I don't suppose for a moment we can understand why the girl committed suicide. Girls of that class—"
This statement reveals Mrs Birling's deep-seated class prejudice and her inability to empathize with those from lower social strata.
Highlight: Priestley uses Mrs Birling's character to critique the selfish attitudes of the privileged classes and their moral blindness.
Mrs Birling's role in the family dynamics reflects the gender norms of the time, where she accepts her husband's dominance while wielding her own form of power through social influence and class-based judgments.
Vocabulary: Social snobbery refers to the attitude of looking down on those considered to be of a lower social class or status.
The character of Mrs Birling serves as a stark representation of the resistance to social change and the perpetuation of class divisions that Priestley sought to challenge through his play.
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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Birlings and Themes of Responsibility
Both Mr and Mrs Birling's characters are central to the exploration of responsibility in "An Inspector Calls." Their refusal to accept blame for their actions against Eva Smith forms a crucial part of the play's moral message.
Key aspects of their approach to responsibility include:
- Immediate rejection of blame
- Attempts to justify their actions
- Dismissal of the Inspector's authority
- Prioritization of personal and social status over moral obligations
Example: Mr Birling's concern about his potential knighthood overshadowing his sense of responsibility for Eva Smith's fate illustrates the conflict between personal ambition and social duty.
The Inspector's investigation serves to challenge the Birlings' worldview, forcing them to confront the consequences of their actions and the interconnectedness of society.
Highlight: The play's structure, with the Inspector methodically revealing each character's involvement, emphasizes the theme of collective responsibility.
Priestley uses the Birlings to critique the capitalist system and the attitudes of the upper classes, suggesting that true progress and social harmony can only be achieved when individuals accept their responsibility to others, regardless of class distinctions.
Definition: Collective responsibility refers to the idea that a group or society as a whole is responsible for the actions and consequences that affect its members.
Through the characters of Mr and Mrs Birling, "An Inspector Calls" presents a powerful examination of social justice, moral responsibility, and the need for empathy across class boundaries in early 20th-century British society.
Page 4: Mrs Birling's Social Context
What does Mrs Birling represent in terms of class prejudice and social responsibility becomes clear through her actions and attitudes.
Quote: "Girls of that class" - Reveals her deeply ingrained class prejudice and dehumanization of working-class people.
Highlight: Priestley uses Mrs Birling to critique:
- The privileged classes' selfish attitudes
- Social snobbery and class discrimination
- Gender inequality in early 20th century Britain
Example: Her refusal to help Eva Smith, despite heading a women's charity, exemplifies the hypocrisy of upper-class philanthropy.
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
Mr Birling: The Capitalist Patriarch
Mr Birling stands as the epitome of capitalist success in "An Inspector Calls." As the head of the Birling household and a successful businessman, he embodies the values of profit-driven society. His character is marked by arrogance, insensitivity, and a reluctance to accept responsibility for his actions.
Highlight: Mr Birling's potential knighthood underscores his focus on social status and public image.
Key traits that define Mr Birling include:
- Arrogance
- Insensitivity
- Pompousness
- Cunning
- Impatience
- Dishonesty
His dismissive attitude towards responsibility is evident in his statements:
Quote: "I can't accept any responsibility."
This quote reveals Mr Birling's immediate rejection of blame, highlighting his selfish nature and unwillingness to acknowledge the consequences of his actions.
Quote: "There's every excuse for what both your mother and I did!"
Here, Mr Birling attempts to justify his actions, demonstrating his refusal to accept guilt or take responsibility for his role in Eva Smith's fate.
Example: Mr Birling's prediction about the impossibility of war showcases his overconfidence and lack of foresight, as seen in the quote "Say there isn't a chance of War."
Mr Birling's character is deeply rooted in the context of a patriarchal society, where his role as a business owner and family patriarch gives him significant power and influence.
Definition: Patriarchy refers to a social system where men hold primary power and predominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.
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