Mr Birling's character analysis in An Inspector Calls reveals a... 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
64
2
Emily Neaves
2/27/2023
English Literature
inspector calls - mr birling
3,602
•
Feb 27, 2023
•
Mr Birling Quotes and Analysis from 'An Inspector Calls' - Acts 1, 2, and 3
Emily Neaves
@emilyneaves
Mr Birling's Business Philosophy and Self-Perception
Throughout the play, Mr Birling's quotes and analysis reveal his deep-seated belief in the superiority of businessmen and their role in society. His character embodies the capitalist ideals that Priestley seeks to critique.
Quote: "We hard-headed practical business men must say something sometime, and we don't guess - we've had experience - and we know."
This statement exemplifies Mr Birling's capitalist quotes, showcasing his confidence in the wisdom and authority of businessmen. The repetition of "we" emphasizes his self-identification with this group, reinforcing the idea that he sees himself as part of an elite class of individuals who drive the economy.
Analysis: Birling's use of "hard-headed" and "practical" suggests he values pragmatism over empathy or social responsibility, a key aspect of his character that leads to conflict in the play.
Birling's interactions with his family further illustrate his self-importance and the value he places on his own opinions. His comment to Sheila, "Just want to say this... This concerns you too. And after all I don't often make speeches at you," reveals his patronizing attitude and belief in his own wisdom.
Example: Birling's treatment of his family members, particularly his daughter Sheila, demonstrates his patriarchal and authoritarian nature, which aligns with his business-oriented worldview.
The playwright uses Birling as a construct or "puppet" to represent and critique capitalist ideologies. This characterization allows Priestley to explore the consequences of prioritizing profit and status over social responsibility and human welfare.
Mr Birling's Worldview and Its Implications
As the play progresses, Mr Birling's quotes Act 2 and Mr Birling's quotes Act 3 continue to reveal the depth of his capitalist mindset and its implications for society. His character serves as a foil to the Inspector's more socially conscious perspective.
Quote: "We hard-headed practical business men must say something sometime, and we don't guess - we've had experience and we know."
This repeated statement underscores Birling's unwavering belief in the superiority of businessmen's knowledge and experience. It also highlights his dismissal of other perspectives, particularly those he deems as "cranks" or impractical idealists.
Highlight: Birling's repetition of this sentiment throughout the play emphasizes his static character and resistance to change or new ideas.
Priestley uses Birling's character to critique the narrow-mindedness often associated with capitalist thinking. By portraying Birling as "provincial in his speech," the author suggests that his business success has not necessarily led to a broader understanding of the world or empathy for others.
Words to describe Mr Birling: Self-important, narrow-minded, capitalistic, patriarchal, resistant to change.
The playwright's characterization of Birling raises important questions about the role of business in society and the responsibilities of those in positions of power. Through Birling's actions and words, Priestley challenges the audience to consider the consequences of prioritizing profit and status over social welfare and moral responsibility.
Mr Birling analysis: His character serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked capitalism and the importance of social responsibility in business and personal life.
In conclusion, Mr Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls" is a complex representation of early 20th-century capitalist ideals. Through his dialogue, actions, and interactions with other characters, Priestley creates a powerful critique of the societal attitudes that prioritize profit and status over human welfare and social justice.
Page 4: The Culmination of Mr Birling's Self-Importance
The final section reinforces Mr Birling's pompous nature and self-assured attitude, which ultimately contributes to his dramatic downfall in the play.
Quote: "We hard-headed practical businessmen must say something sometime, and we don't guess- we've had experience and we know"
Highlight: The repetition of this quote emphasizes its significance in understanding Birling's character
Definition: The term 'pompous' accurately describes Birling's inflated sense of self-importance and authority
Mr Birling's Introduction and Characterization
J.B. Priestley introduces Mr Birling as a prominent figure in the play "An Inspector Calls," setting the stage for his role as a representation of capitalist ideals. The author carefully crafts Birling's character through various literary devices and stage directions.
Highlight: Priestley uses physical positioning to emphasize Birling's perceived importance, placing him "at one end" of the table to symbolize his position at the top of the family hierarchy.
The description of Birling as "portentous" and "heavy looking" further reinforces his self-importance and wealth. These characteristics are crucial in understanding how Mr Birling is presented in An Inspector Calls as a symbol of the capitalist upper class.
Vocabulary: Portentous - Having a self-important or pompous manner.
Priestley also draws attention to Birling's speech, describing it as "provincial." This detail suggests a lack of sophistication and possibly a narrow-minded worldview, which becomes evident in Birling's later statements and actions.
Definition: Provincial speech - A manner of speaking that is characteristic of or peculiar to a particular region, potentially indicating a lack of worldliness or sophistication.
Mr Birling's quotes Act 1 begin to reveal his character's core beliefs and aspirations. His statement about looking forward to a time when "Crofts and Birlings are no longer competing but are working together - for lower costs and higher prices" demonstrates his focus on business success and profit, regardless of the potential negative impacts on workers or consumers.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the 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
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 Quotes and Analysis from 'An Inspector Calls' - Acts 1, 2, and 3
Emily Neaves
@emilyneaves
Mr Birling's character analysis in An Inspector Calls reveals a self-important, capitalist businessman whose downfall serves as a critique of early 20th-century social hierarchy.
• Mr Birling's physical positioning and demeanor reflect his perceived social status and authority
• His... Show more
Mr Birling's Business Philosophy and Self-Perception
Throughout the play, Mr Birling's quotes and analysis reveal his deep-seated belief in the superiority of businessmen and their role in society. His character embodies the capitalist ideals that Priestley seeks to critique.
Quote: "We hard-headed practical business men must say something sometime, and we don't guess - we've had experience - and we know."
This statement exemplifies Mr Birling's capitalist quotes, showcasing his confidence in the wisdom and authority of businessmen. The repetition of "we" emphasizes his self-identification with this group, reinforcing the idea that he sees himself as part of an elite class of individuals who drive the economy.
Analysis: Birling's use of "hard-headed" and "practical" suggests he values pragmatism over empathy or social responsibility, a key aspect of his character that leads to conflict in the play.
Birling's interactions with his family further illustrate his self-importance and the value he places on his own opinions. His comment to Sheila, "Just want to say this... This concerns you too. And after all I don't often make speeches at you," reveals his patronizing attitude and belief in his own wisdom.
Example: Birling's treatment of his family members, particularly his daughter Sheila, demonstrates his patriarchal and authoritarian nature, which aligns with his business-oriented worldview.
The playwright uses Birling as a construct or "puppet" to represent and critique capitalist ideologies. This characterization allows Priestley to explore the consequences of prioritizing profit and status over social responsibility and human welfare.
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 Worldview and Its Implications
As the play progresses, Mr Birling's quotes Act 2 and Mr Birling's quotes Act 3 continue to reveal the depth of his capitalist mindset and its implications for society. His character serves as a foil to the Inspector's more socially conscious perspective.
Quote: "We hard-headed practical business men must say something sometime, and we don't guess - we've had experience and we know."
This repeated statement underscores Birling's unwavering belief in the superiority of businessmen's knowledge and experience. It also highlights his dismissal of other perspectives, particularly those he deems as "cranks" or impractical idealists.
Highlight: Birling's repetition of this sentiment throughout the play emphasizes his static character and resistance to change or new ideas.
Priestley uses Birling's character to critique the narrow-mindedness often associated with capitalist thinking. By portraying Birling as "provincial in his speech," the author suggests that his business success has not necessarily led to a broader understanding of the world or empathy for others.
Words to describe Mr Birling: Self-important, narrow-minded, capitalistic, patriarchal, resistant to change.
The playwright's characterization of Birling raises important questions about the role of business in society and the responsibilities of those in positions of power. Through Birling's actions and words, Priestley challenges the audience to consider the consequences of prioritizing profit and status over social welfare and moral responsibility.
Mr Birling analysis: His character serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked capitalism and the importance of social responsibility in business and personal life.
In conclusion, Mr Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls" is a complex representation of early 20th-century capitalist ideals. Through his dialogue, actions, and interactions with other characters, Priestley creates a powerful critique of the societal attitudes that prioritize profit and status over human welfare and social justice.
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
Page 4: The Culmination of Mr Birling's Self-Importance
The final section reinforces Mr Birling's pompous nature and self-assured attitude, which ultimately contributes to his dramatic downfall in the play.
Quote: "We hard-headed practical businessmen must say something sometime, and we don't guess- we've had experience and we know"
Highlight: The repetition of this quote emphasizes its significance in understanding Birling's character
Definition: The term 'pompous' accurately describes Birling's inflated sense of self-importance and authority
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 Introduction and Characterization
J.B. Priestley introduces Mr Birling as a prominent figure in the play "An Inspector Calls," setting the stage for his role as a representation of capitalist ideals. The author carefully crafts Birling's character through various literary devices and stage directions.
Highlight: Priestley uses physical positioning to emphasize Birling's perceived importance, placing him "at one end" of the table to symbolize his position at the top of the family hierarchy.
The description of Birling as "portentous" and "heavy looking" further reinforces his self-importance and wealth. These characteristics are crucial in understanding how Mr Birling is presented in An Inspector Calls as a symbol of the capitalist upper class.
Vocabulary: Portentous - Having a self-important or pompous manner.
Priestley also draws attention to Birling's speech, describing it as "provincial." This detail suggests a lack of sophistication and possibly a narrow-minded worldview, which becomes evident in Birling's later statements and actions.
Definition: Provincial speech - A manner of speaking that is characteristic of or peculiar to a particular region, potentially indicating a lack of worldliness or sophistication.
Mr Birling's quotes Act 1 begin to reveal his character's core beliefs and aspirations. His statement about looking forward to a time when "Crofts and Birlings are no longer competing but are working together - for lower costs and higher prices" demonstrates his focus on business success and profit, regardless of the potential negative impacts on workers or consumers.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the 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
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