An Inspector Calls is a powerful critique of social inequality... Show more
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
557
•
Jul 15, 2022
•
Learn About Birlings Social Change in An Inspector Calls
Bella Findlay
@bellafindlay_uk
![How does Priestley present Mr and Mrs Birling as representations for the need of social
change?
[30 marks]
Priestley acted as one of many ca](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcontent-eu-central-1.knowunity.com%2FCONTENT%2FlPxkIhVCkNcrhJqJTiiT_image_page_1.webp&w=2048&q=75)
Dramatic Irony and Character Flaws
Priestley employs dramatic irony to undermine Mr Birling's character and expose the flaws in his worldview. This literary device is particularly effective given the play's setting in 1912 and its performance in 1945, allowing the audience to recognize the irony in Mr Birling's statements.
Definition: Dramatic irony - A literary device where the audience knows more about a situation than the characters in the story.
Mr Birling's confident assertion about the Titanic being "unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable" serves as a prime example of dramatic irony. The audience, aware of the Titanic's fate, immediately recognizes Mr Birling's ignorance and arrogance.
Quote: "Unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable"
This statement not only undermines Mr Birling's credibility but also symbolizes the hubris of the upper class and their misplaced confidence in the existing social order.
Priestley uses the Titanic as an extended metaphor for class division, reflecting the hierarchical structure of society. The separation of passengers by class on the ship mirrors the social stratification in Edwardian England.
Example: The Titanic's class-based layout, with first-class passengers on upper decks and third-class passengers confined below, parallels the social hierarchy Priestley critiques in the play.
The playwright challenges the notion that the older generation's opinions should be accepted without question. By portraying Mr Birling as foolish and short-sighted, Priestley encourages the audience to question authority and traditional social structures.
Highlight: Priestley's portrayal of Mr Birling serves to expose the flaws in the generation battle, suggesting that age does not necessarily equate to wisdom or moral superiority.
Mr and Mrs Birling character study for GCSE reveals how Priestley uses these characters to represent the outdated and harmful social attitudes that he believed needed to change. Their resistance to new ideas and their prioritization of wealth and status over human welfare serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked capitalism and social inequality.
![How does Priestley present Mr and Mrs Birling as representations for the need of social
change?
[30 marks]
Priestley acted as one of many ca](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcontent-eu-central-1.knowunity.com%2FCONTENT%2FlPxkIhVCkNcrhJqJTiiT_image_page_2.webp&w=2048&q=75)
Mr and Mrs Birling as Representations of Social Inequality
J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls' presents Mr and Mrs Birling as embodiments of the social inequality prevalent in Edwardian England. The play, set in 1912 but written in 1945, serves as a critique of the capitalist mindset and highlights the urgent need for social change. Priestley uses these characters to illustrate the detrimental effects of class division and the exploitation of workers.
Highlight: Priestley uses the dinner celebration scene to juxtapose the older and younger generations, immediately highlighting their conflicting views on social responsibility.
Mr Birling's attitude towards his daughter's engagement reveals his capitalist mindset. He views the union not as a celebration of love, but as a business opportunity. This is evident in his statement about "working together - for lower costs and higher prices."
Quote: "When Crofts and Birlings are no longer competing but working together - for lower costs and higher prices"
This quote exposes Mr Birling's true intentions, showing how he prioritizes profit over personal relationships. The phrase "working together" is a euphemism for monopolizing businesses, a practice that, while not illegal, was considered unethical.
Vocabulary: Monopolizing - The act of obtaining exclusive possession or control of a trade or service.
Mr Birling's capitalist ideology is further emphasized when he speaks about his "duty to keep labour costs down." This statement reveals his view of workers as mere commodities rather than human beings.
Example: Mr Birling's attitude towards his workers is exemplified when he refers to them as "costs" rather than people, demonstrating his dehumanizing perspective on the working class.
Priestley contrasts Mr Birling's views with those of his son, Eric, who argues that "these girls aren't cheap labour- they're people." This generational conflict highlights the changing attitudes towards social equality and workers' rights.
Definition: Generational conflict - A clash of ideas, beliefs, and attitudes between different age groups, often reflecting changing social norms and values.
An Inspector Calls social inequality analysis reveals how Priestley uses Mr and Mrs Birling to represent the older generation's resistance to social change. Their attitudes and beliefs serve as a foil to the more progressive views of their children, emphasizing the need for societal reform.
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
Learn About Birlings Social Change in An Inspector Calls
Bella Findlay
@bellafindlay_uk
An Inspector Calls is a powerful critique of social inequality and class divisions in early 20th century Britain. Priestley's representation of the Birlings showcases the need for social change, contrasting the older generation's capitalist views with the younger characters'... Show more
Dramatic Irony and Character Flaws
Priestley employs dramatic irony to undermine Mr Birling's character and expose the flaws in his worldview. This literary device is particularly effective given the play's setting in 1912 and its performance in 1945, allowing the audience to recognize the irony in Mr Birling's statements.
Definition: Dramatic irony - A literary device where the audience knows more about a situation than the characters in the story.
Mr Birling's confident assertion about the Titanic being "unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable" serves as a prime example of dramatic irony. The audience, aware of the Titanic's fate, immediately recognizes Mr Birling's ignorance and arrogance.
Quote: "Unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable"
This statement not only undermines Mr Birling's credibility but also symbolizes the hubris of the upper class and their misplaced confidence in the existing social order.
Priestley uses the Titanic as an extended metaphor for class division, reflecting the hierarchical structure of society. The separation of passengers by class on the ship mirrors the social stratification in Edwardian England.
Example: The Titanic's class-based layout, with first-class passengers on upper decks and third-class passengers confined below, parallels the social hierarchy Priestley critiques in the play.
The playwright challenges the notion that the older generation's opinions should be accepted without question. By portraying Mr Birling as foolish and short-sighted, Priestley encourages the audience to question authority and traditional social structures.
Highlight: Priestley's portrayal of Mr Birling serves to expose the flaws in the generation battle, suggesting that age does not necessarily equate to wisdom or moral superiority.
Mr and Mrs Birling character study for GCSE reveals how Priestley uses these characters to represent the outdated and harmful social attitudes that he believed needed to change. Their resistance to new ideas and their prioritization of wealth and status over human welfare serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked capitalism and social inequality.
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 and Mrs Birling as Representations of Social Inequality
J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls' presents Mr and Mrs Birling as embodiments of the social inequality prevalent in Edwardian England. The play, set in 1912 but written in 1945, serves as a critique of the capitalist mindset and highlights the urgent need for social change. Priestley uses these characters to illustrate the detrimental effects of class division and the exploitation of workers.
Highlight: Priestley uses the dinner celebration scene to juxtapose the older and younger generations, immediately highlighting their conflicting views on social responsibility.
Mr Birling's attitude towards his daughter's engagement reveals his capitalist mindset. He views the union not as a celebration of love, but as a business opportunity. This is evident in his statement about "working together - for lower costs and higher prices."
Quote: "When Crofts and Birlings are no longer competing but working together - for lower costs and higher prices"
This quote exposes Mr Birling's true intentions, showing how he prioritizes profit over personal relationships. The phrase "working together" is a euphemism for monopolizing businesses, a practice that, while not illegal, was considered unethical.
Vocabulary: Monopolizing - The act of obtaining exclusive possession or control of a trade or service.
Mr Birling's capitalist ideology is further emphasized when he speaks about his "duty to keep labour costs down." This statement reveals his view of workers as mere commodities rather than human beings.
Example: Mr Birling's attitude towards his workers is exemplified when he refers to them as "costs" rather than people, demonstrating his dehumanizing perspective on the working class.
Priestley contrasts Mr Birling's views with those of his son, Eric, who argues that "these girls aren't cheap labour- they're people." This generational conflict highlights the changing attitudes towards social equality and workers' rights.
Definition: Generational conflict - A clash of ideas, beliefs, and attitudes between different age groups, often reflecting changing social norms and values.
An Inspector Calls social inequality analysis reveals how Priestley uses Mr and Mrs Birling to represent the older generation's resistance to social change. Their attitudes and beliefs serve as a foil to the more progressive views of their children, emphasizing the need for societal reform.
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