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.