Mrs Birlingin "An Inspector Calls" is a cold, unsympathetic... Show more
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Sep 19, 2022
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An Inspector Calls: Mrs Birling Quotes, Actions, and Character Analysis
Jasmin Khatri
@jasminkhatri_
Mrs Birling's Role and Characterization
Mrs Birling serves as a dramatic device in "An Inspector Calls", representing the attitudes of an Edwardian upper-class woman. Her character is crucial in highlighting the social issues Priestley aimed to critique.
Social Superiority
Mrs Birling views herself as socially superior to the lower classes. This is evident in her interactions and dialogue throughout the play.
Example: She corrects her husband's social manners, saying "Arthur, you're not supposed to say such things" when he thanks the maid for dinner.
She also attempts to intimidate the Inspector by mentioning her husband's social position:
Quote: "You know of course that my husband was Lord Mayor only two years ago and that he's still a magistrate."
Arrogance and Prejudice
Mrs Birling's arrogance is displayed in her belief that she is qualified to judge what is "respectable" and "deserving". Her prejudice against the lower classes is clear in her treatment of Eva Smith.
Quote: "I didn't like her manner. She was giving herself ridiculous airs."
Lack of Awareness
An important aspect of Mrs Birling's character is her apparent lack of awareness of the realities around her. This could be interpreted as deliberate ignorance rather than genuine unawareness.
Highlight: Mrs Birling's reaction to learning about Eric's involvement in Eva's pregnancy demonstrates her hypocrisy and selective blindness.
Resistance to Change
Unlike some other characters, Mrs Birling does not change or learn from the Inspector's revelations. Her attitude remains hardened throughout the play.
Quote: "I was the only one of you who didn't give in to him."
This resistance to change underscores Priestley's critique of the rigid class system and the unwillingness of some to acknowledge their social responsibilities.
Mrs Birling's Treatment of Eva Smith and Character Development
Mrs Birling's Interaction with Eva Smith
Mrs Birling's treatment of Eva Smith is a crucial element in "An Inspector Calls". Her actions towards Eva highlight her prejudices and lack of empathy.
Highlight: Mrs Birling turned Eva Smith away from her charity when she desperately needed help.
Mrs Birling's justification for her actions reveals her deep-seated class prejudice:
Quote: "She was claiming elaborate feelings and scruples that were simply absurd in a girl in her position."
Perception of Eva's Situation
Mrs Birling's view of Eva's pregnancy out of wedlock demonstrates her rigid moral standards and lack of compassion:
Quote: "As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!"
This statement shows that Mrs Birling automatically assumes Eva is morally corrupt due to her circumstances.
Character Development
Unlike some characters in the play, Mrs Birling does not undergo significant character development. She remains largely unchanged by the Inspector's revelations.
Highlight: Mrs Birling is presented throughout the play as a narrow-minded, patronizing, and arrogant character.
Her refusal to accept any responsibility for Eva's death, even after learning of her son's involvement, underscores her inability to change:
Quote: "I accept no blame for it at all."
Priestley's Critique
Through Mrs Birling's character, Priestley critiques the unfair distribution of power in Edwardian society and its corrupting influence. Her unwillingness to change or accept responsibility serves as a stark contrast to characters like Sheila, highlighting the generational divide in attitudes towards social responsibility.
Analysis: Mrs Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls" serves as a powerful critique of upper-class attitudes and the lack of social responsibility in Edwardian society. Her treatment of Eva Smith and her resistance to change throughout the play underscore Priestley's themes of class prejudice, gender roles, and the need for collective responsibility.
Mrs Birling's Character and Key Themes
Mrs Birling is a central character in J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls". Her portrayal is deeply intertwined with key themes of the play, particularly those of class, gender, and social responsibility.
Class Prejudice
Mrs Birling's attitude towards Eva Smith exemplifies the class prejudice prevalent in Edwardian society. She dismisses Eva as "a girl of that class", revealing her deeply ingrained snobbery.
Quote: "As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!"
This quote demonstrates Mrs Birling's assumption that working-class individuals are inherently greedy and lack moral principles.
Gender Roles
Mrs Birling embodies traditional Edwardian views on gender roles. Despite not having a job herself, she judges Eva harshly for her circumstances.
Quote: "She was claiming elaborate fine feelings and scruples that were simply absurd in a girl in her position."
This statement reveals Mrs Birling's belief that working-class women should not aspire to have complex emotions or moral standards.
Social Responsibility
Mrs Birling's refusal to accept any responsibility for Eva's fate is a central aspect of her character.
Quote: "I accept no blame for it at all."
Her insistence that she "did her duty" by turning Eva away from her charity highlights the theme of social responsibility, or lack thereof, among the upper classes.
Highlight: Mrs Birling's character serves as a critique of the wealthy's indifference to the struggles of the working class.
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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
An Inspector Calls: Mrs Birling Quotes, Actions, and Character Analysis
Jasmin Khatri
@jasminkhatri_
Mrs Birlingin "An Inspector Calls" is a cold, unsympathetic character who represents the upper-class attitudes of Edwardian society. She embodies themes of social responsibility, class prejudice, and gender roles. Throughout the play, Mrs Birling refuses to accept any blame... Show more
Mrs Birling's Role and Characterization
Mrs Birling serves as a dramatic device in "An Inspector Calls", representing the attitudes of an Edwardian upper-class woman. Her character is crucial in highlighting the social issues Priestley aimed to critique.
Social Superiority
Mrs Birling views herself as socially superior to the lower classes. This is evident in her interactions and dialogue throughout the play.
Example: She corrects her husband's social manners, saying "Arthur, you're not supposed to say such things" when he thanks the maid for dinner.
She also attempts to intimidate the Inspector by mentioning her husband's social position:
Quote: "You know of course that my husband was Lord Mayor only two years ago and that he's still a magistrate."
Arrogance and Prejudice
Mrs Birling's arrogance is displayed in her belief that she is qualified to judge what is "respectable" and "deserving". Her prejudice against the lower classes is clear in her treatment of Eva Smith.
Quote: "I didn't like her manner. She was giving herself ridiculous airs."
Lack of Awareness
An important aspect of Mrs Birling's character is her apparent lack of awareness of the realities around her. This could be interpreted as deliberate ignorance rather than genuine unawareness.
Highlight: Mrs Birling's reaction to learning about Eric's involvement in Eva's pregnancy demonstrates her hypocrisy and selective blindness.
Resistance to Change
Unlike some other characters, Mrs Birling does not change or learn from the Inspector's revelations. Her attitude remains hardened throughout the play.
Quote: "I was the only one of you who didn't give in to him."
This resistance to change underscores Priestley's critique of the rigid class system and the unwillingness of some to acknowledge their social responsibilities.
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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
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Mrs Birling's Treatment of Eva Smith and Character Development
Mrs Birling's Interaction with Eva Smith
Mrs Birling's treatment of Eva Smith is a crucial element in "An Inspector Calls". Her actions towards Eva highlight her prejudices and lack of empathy.
Highlight: Mrs Birling turned Eva Smith away from her charity when she desperately needed help.
Mrs Birling's justification for her actions reveals her deep-seated class prejudice:
Quote: "She was claiming elaborate feelings and scruples that were simply absurd in a girl in her position."
Perception of Eva's Situation
Mrs Birling's view of Eva's pregnancy out of wedlock demonstrates her rigid moral standards and lack of compassion:
Quote: "As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!"
This statement shows that Mrs Birling automatically assumes Eva is morally corrupt due to her circumstances.
Character Development
Unlike some characters in the play, Mrs Birling does not undergo significant character development. She remains largely unchanged by the Inspector's revelations.
Highlight: Mrs Birling is presented throughout the play as a narrow-minded, patronizing, and arrogant character.
Her refusal to accept any responsibility for Eva's death, even after learning of her son's involvement, underscores her inability to change:
Quote: "I accept no blame for it at all."
Priestley's Critique
Through Mrs Birling's character, Priestley critiques the unfair distribution of power in Edwardian society and its corrupting influence. Her unwillingness to change or accept responsibility serves as a stark contrast to characters like Sheila, highlighting the generational divide in attitudes towards social responsibility.
Analysis: Mrs Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls" serves as a powerful critique of upper-class attitudes and the lack of social responsibility in Edwardian society. Her treatment of Eva Smith and her resistance to change throughout the play underscore Priestley's themes of class prejudice, gender roles, and the need for collective responsibility.
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
Mrs Birling's Character and Key Themes
Mrs Birling is a central character in J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls". Her portrayal is deeply intertwined with key themes of the play, particularly those of class, gender, and social responsibility.
Class Prejudice
Mrs Birling's attitude towards Eva Smith exemplifies the class prejudice prevalent in Edwardian society. She dismisses Eva as "a girl of that class", revealing her deeply ingrained snobbery.
Quote: "As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!"
This quote demonstrates Mrs Birling's assumption that working-class individuals are inherently greedy and lack moral principles.
Gender Roles
Mrs Birling embodies traditional Edwardian views on gender roles. Despite not having a job herself, she judges Eva harshly for her circumstances.
Quote: "She was claiming elaborate fine feelings and scruples that were simply absurd in a girl in her position."
This statement reveals Mrs Birling's belief that working-class women should not aspire to have complex emotions or moral standards.
Social Responsibility
Mrs Birling's refusal to accept any responsibility for Eva's fate is a central aspect of her character.
Quote: "I accept no blame for it at all."
Her insistence that she "did her duty" by turning Eva away from her charity highlights the theme of social responsibility, or lack thereof, among the upper classes.
Highlight: Mrs Birling's character serves as a critique of the wealthy's indifference to the struggles of the working class.
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