Page 1: Mr Birling's Character and Social Position

Priestley presents Mr Birling as an ambitious businessman whose primary motivations revolve around social climbing and financial success. His character embodies the tensions between capitalism in An Inspector Calls and social responsibility.

Quote: "there's a very good chance of a knighthood" - demonstrating Birling's preoccupation with social status

Highlight: Birling's provincial accent, as noted in stage directions, emphasizes his middle-class origins despite his attempts to appear upper-class

The text explores Birling's relationship with Eva Smith, highlighting his ruthless business practices and dismissal of workers' rights. His handling of the strike situation demonstrates his opposition to social responsibility in An Inspector Calls.

Example: Birling's firing of strike leaders at his factory shows his prioritization of profit over worker welfare

Quote: "community and all that nonsense" - revealing his dismissal of collective responsibility