Mr Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls"... Show more
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Jul 17, 2022
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Mr Birling and Mrs Birling in An Inspector Calls: Quotes, Analysis, and Character Transformation
Mr Birling's Reaction to Eva Smith's Suicide
As the news of Eva Smith's suicide is revealed, Mr Birling's character is further developed through his dismissive and evasive reactions.
Initially, Mr Birling attempts to sidestep responsibility for his actions during the Inspector's interrogation. His evasive techniques highlight his reluctance to acknowledge any connection to Eva Smith's death.
Highlight: Mr Birling's dismissive attitude towards the suicide reveals his lack of empathy and his prioritization of self-interest over human life.
Priestley structures the text to show a shift in Mr Birling's attitude when he realizes the potential for a "public scandal". This change in demeanor exposes Mr Birling as self-centered and shallow, more concerned with his reputation than the loss of a human life.
Quote: "There'll be a public scandal."
Mr Birling's angry reaction after the Inspector's departure suggests a loss of control and a breakdown of the power he held at the beginning of the play. His emotional response implies a tacit admission of wrongdoing and a fear of potential consequences.
Vocabulary: Tacit - understood or implied without being stated
Priestley further undermines Mr Birling's moral credibility by having him claim that he will "suffer" the most from the news. This self-victimization starkly contrasts with the tragedy of Eva Smith's situation, emphasizing Mr Birling's failure to learn from the experience or embrace collective responsibility.
Mr Birling's Presentation in Act 3
In the middle of Act 3, Priestley presents Mr Birling as less confident and more vulnerable, revealing the impact of the Inspector's interrogation on his psyche.
Mr Birling's release of a "huge sigh of relief" upon learning that the Inspector was not a legitimate police officer indirectly confirms his underlying concerns about the implications of the visit. This moment exposes Mr Birling's earlier bravado as a facade, revealing his true vulnerability.
Quote: "He releases a huge sigh of relief."
Priestley uses this shift in Mr Birling's demeanor to contrast his social superiority with his moral inferiority. This juxtaposition serves as a critique of the class system, suggesting that social standing is an unreliable indicator of moral character.
Just before receiving news of another inspector's impending visit, Mr Birling adopts a mocking tone towards his children's empathy. This behavior presents him as cold and uncaring, further emphasizing his inability to learn from the experience or develop genuine compassion.
Highlight: Mr Birling's ridicule of the younger generation's empathy reveals his outdated views and resistance to change.
By the end of the play, Mr Birling's character arc demonstrates the consequences of rigid adherence to capitalist ideals and the failure to embrace social responsibility. Priestley uses this transformation to critique societal structures and promote a more compassionate, collectively responsible approach to human relationships.
Mr Birling's Presentation at the Beginning of Act 1
At the start of Act 1, Mr Birling is introduced as a self-important and confident character during the celebration of Sheila Birling and Gerald Croft's engagement.
Priestley presents Mr Birling as a man who defines himself by his business success and economic prowess. He describes himself as a "hard-headed, practical" man, emphasizing his belief in his own authority on worldly and economic matters. This self-description reveals Mr Birling's pride in his perceived success and importance.
Quote: "I'm a hard-headed, practical man of business."
Mr Birling's focus on business and economic success is further emphasized when he refers to himself as a "man of business". This characterization suggests that he views his professional achievements as the most important aspect of his identity.
Highlight: Priestley uses Mr Birling's self-description to reveal his narrow-minded and unempathetic approach to life and relationships.
The author presents Mr Birling's capitalist ideology through his statement that "a man has to mind his own business". This belief system prioritizes individual success over collective well-being, setting up a contrast with the Inspector's later emphasis on social responsibility.
Example: Mr Birling's advice to "look after himself" demonstrates his individualistic worldview, which Priestley critiques throughout the play.
Priestley uses Mr Birling's character to represent the flaws in capitalist thinking, setting the stage for the moral examination that unfolds throughout the play.
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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Mr Birling and Mrs Birling in An Inspector Calls: Quotes, Analysis, and Character Transformation
Mr Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls" evolves throughout the play, revealing his flaws and the consequences of his actions. This analysis explores his presentation at different stages, highlighting his transformation and Priestley's critique of capitalist ideals.... Show more
Mr Birling's Reaction to Eva Smith's Suicide
As the news of Eva Smith's suicide is revealed, Mr Birling's character is further developed through his dismissive and evasive reactions.
Initially, Mr Birling attempts to sidestep responsibility for his actions during the Inspector's interrogation. His evasive techniques highlight his reluctance to acknowledge any connection to Eva Smith's death.
Highlight: Mr Birling's dismissive attitude towards the suicide reveals his lack of empathy and his prioritization of self-interest over human life.
Priestley structures the text to show a shift in Mr Birling's attitude when he realizes the potential for a "public scandal". This change in demeanor exposes Mr Birling as self-centered and shallow, more concerned with his reputation than the loss of a human life.
Quote: "There'll be a public scandal."
Mr Birling's angry reaction after the Inspector's departure suggests a loss of control and a breakdown of the power he held at the beginning of the play. His emotional response implies a tacit admission of wrongdoing and a fear of potential consequences.
Vocabulary: Tacit - understood or implied without being stated
Priestley further undermines Mr Birling's moral credibility by having him claim that he will "suffer" the most from the news. This self-victimization starkly contrasts with the tragedy of Eva Smith's situation, emphasizing Mr Birling's failure to learn from the experience or embrace collective responsibility.
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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
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By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Mr Birling's Presentation in Act 3
In the middle of Act 3, Priestley presents Mr Birling as less confident and more vulnerable, revealing the impact of the Inspector's interrogation on his psyche.
Mr Birling's release of a "huge sigh of relief" upon learning that the Inspector was not a legitimate police officer indirectly confirms his underlying concerns about the implications of the visit. This moment exposes Mr Birling's earlier bravado as a facade, revealing his true vulnerability.
Quote: "He releases a huge sigh of relief."
Priestley uses this shift in Mr Birling's demeanor to contrast his social superiority with his moral inferiority. This juxtaposition serves as a critique of the class system, suggesting that social standing is an unreliable indicator of moral character.
Just before receiving news of another inspector's impending visit, Mr Birling adopts a mocking tone towards his children's empathy. This behavior presents him as cold and uncaring, further emphasizing his inability to learn from the experience or develop genuine compassion.
Highlight: Mr Birling's ridicule of the younger generation's empathy reveals his outdated views and resistance to change.
By the end of the play, Mr Birling's character arc demonstrates the consequences of rigid adherence to capitalist ideals and the failure to embrace social responsibility. Priestley uses this transformation to critique societal structures and promote a more compassionate, collectively responsible approach to human relationships.
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's Presentation at the Beginning of Act 1
At the start of Act 1, Mr Birling is introduced as a self-important and confident character during the celebration of Sheila Birling and Gerald Croft's engagement.
Priestley presents Mr Birling as a man who defines himself by his business success and economic prowess. He describes himself as a "hard-headed, practical" man, emphasizing his belief in his own authority on worldly and economic matters. This self-description reveals Mr Birling's pride in his perceived success and importance.
Quote: "I'm a hard-headed, practical man of business."
Mr Birling's focus on business and economic success is further emphasized when he refers to himself as a "man of business". This characterization suggests that he views his professional achievements as the most important aspect of his identity.
Highlight: Priestley uses Mr Birling's self-description to reveal his narrow-minded and unempathetic approach to life and relationships.
The author presents Mr Birling's capitalist ideology through his statement that "a man has to mind his own business". This belief system prioritizes individual success over collective well-being, setting up a contrast with the Inspector's later emphasis on social responsibility.
Example: Mr Birling's advice to "look after himself" demonstrates his individualistic worldview, which Priestley critiques throughout the play.
Priestley uses Mr Birling's character to represent the flaws in capitalist thinking, setting the stage for the moral examination that unfolds throughout the play.
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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user