Mrs Birlingin "An Inspector Calls" is a cold, unsympathetic... 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

31
0
Jasmin Khatri
10/11/2025
English Lang.
An Inspector Calls: Mrs Birling Summary Revision
956
•
Oct 11, 2025
•
Jasmin Khatri
@jasminkhatri_
Mrs Birlingin "An Inspector Calls" is a cold, unsympathetic... Show more




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 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 (or Lack Thereof)
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 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.
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.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
App Store
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
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

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
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.

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 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 (or Lack Thereof)
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.

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
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.
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.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
31
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore detailed chapter summaries of 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' by Robert Louis Stevenson. This resource covers key events, character developments, and thematic elements from each chapter, providing a comprehensive understanding of the narrative. Ideal for students seeking to grasp the complexities of the story.
Explore Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's insights on the dangers of a single narrative in her impactful speech. This analysis delves into storytelling, stereotypes, and the consequences of globalization, highlighting personal anecdotes that illustrate the importance of diverse perspectives. Ideal for understanding narrative techniques and societal implications.
Explore the character of Eva Smith (Daisy Renton) in 'An Inspector Calls'. This summary highlights her struggles, relationships, and the societal issues she represents, including class disparity and women's rights. Key points and evidence are provided to enhance understanding of her pivotal role in the play.
Explore the pivotal moments in 'A Christmas Carol' that illustrate Scrooge's evolution from a miserly figure to a caring individual. This summary covers key themes such as redemption, family values, and the impact of poverty, alongside the significant roles of characters like Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, and Jacob Marley. Ideal for students studying Dickens' classic, this resource highlights the importance of compassion and social responsibility.
Explore a detailed analysis of Inspector Goole's character in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This study note delves into his authoritative presence, social responsibility themes, and the critique of capitalist attitudes. Ideal for GCSE revision, it highlights key quotes and character dynamics, emphasizing the inspector's role in challenging the upper class and advocating for collective responsibility. Perfect for students seeking to understand the moral implications of the play.
Explore the portrayal of Mr. Hyde as a dangerous character in Robert Louis Stevenson's 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde'. This analysis delves into key language techniques such as vivid imagery, symbolism, and foreshadowing that highlight Hyde's menacing presence. Understand how the duality of human nature is represented through the relationship between Jekyll and Hyde, and how narrative structure enhances the sense of danger throughout the novella. Ideal for Grade 9 literature studies.
App Store
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