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.
