Mr Birling, a key character in "An Inspector Calls," is portrayed as an arrogant, capitalist businessman who embodies the outdated values of the Edwardian era. His character is marked by dramatic irony, as his confident predictions about the future are known by the audience to be incorrect. Throughout the play, Mr Birling demonstrates a dismissive attitude towards socialism, community values, and the opinions of younger generations, particularly his own children. His unwavering belief in his own superiority and the infallibility of the class system ultimately reveals his naivety and inability to adapt to changing social norms.
- Mr Birling's character is defined by his arrogance, naivety, and strong capitalist beliefs
- His statements often involve dramatic irony, with the audience aware of future events that contradict his assertions
- He consistently dismisses the opinions of younger characters, including his own children
- Mr Birling's inability to change his views highlights the generational divide and resistance to social progress
- His character serves as a critique of the outdated values and attitudes of the Edwardian upper class
