An in-depth analysis of Mrs. Birling's character in "An Inspector... 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
6
0
Abbie Dorey
9/3/2025
English Lang.
Sybil Birling - An Inspector Calls Quotes
1 / 1
Mrs. Birling: A Character Analysis Through Quotes
Mrs. Sybil Birling, a prominent character in J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls," embodies the entrenched attitudes of the upper class in early 20th-century Britain. Her dialogue throughout the play provides a window into her personality, beliefs, and the societal norms she represents.
Superiority and Class Prejudice
Mrs. Birling's character is defined by her strong sense of superiority and class prejudice. This is evident in several of her Mrs Birling quotes, particularly when discussing Eva Smith:
Quote: "As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money"
This statement reveals Mrs. Birling's assumption that working-class individuals are primarily motivated by financial gain, demonstrating her lack of understanding of their values and struggles.
Quote: "Girls of that class"
The use of this phrase further emphasizes Mrs. Birling's rigid class distinctions and her belief in the inherent inferiority of those from lower social strata.
Lack of Empathy
Mrs. Birling's character is marked by a striking lack of empathy, particularly towards those she considers beneath her social standing. This is evident in her dismissive attitude towards Eva Smith's plight:
Quote: "I'll tell you what I told her, Go & look for the father of that child"
This Mrs Birling quote about Eva showcases her callousness and unwillingness to offer assistance to someone in desperate need.
Quote: "She only had herself to blame"
This statement further underlines Mrs. Birling's lack of compassion and her tendency to blame victims for their circumstances.
Arrogance and Privilege
Mrs. Birling's character is deeply rooted in her privileged background, which manifests as arrogance in her interactions:
Quote: "Edna'll go. I asked her to wait up & make us some tea"
This casual command to a servant highlights Mrs. Birling's sense of entitlement and her view of lower-class individuals as existing to serve her needs.
Quote: "I was the only one of you who didn't give in to him"
This Mrs Birling quote demonstrates her pride in her own perceived strength and superiority, even in the face of the Inspector's questioning.
Ignorance and Denial
Mrs. Birling's character is also marked by a willful ignorance of realities that don't align with her worldview:
Quote: "Surely you don't mean Alderman Meggart"
This statement, in response to learning about Eric's drinking problem, shows Mrs. Birling's reluctance to accept uncomfortable truths about her own family.
Unrepentant Attitude
Perhaps most tellingly, Mrs. Birling remains unrepentant even when confronted with the consequences of her actions:
Quote: "I did nothing I'm ashamed of"
This Mrs Birling responsibility quote encapsulates her inability to recognize her own culpability in Eva Smith's tragedy.
In conclusion, Mrs. Birling's character, as revealed through her quotes, represents the entrenched attitudes of the upper class in early 20th-century Britain. Her superiority complex, lack of empathy, and rigid adherence to class distinctions make her a pivotal figure in the play's exploration of social responsibility and the consequences of unchecked privilege.
Highlight: Mrs. Birling's character serves as a critique of the upper class's disconnect from the realities of working-class life and the devastating consequences this can have on individuals like Eva Smith.
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
Mrs Birling Quotes and Analysis - An Inspector Calls
An in-depth analysis of Mrs. Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls" reveals her as a complex, flawed figure representing upper-class prejudice and societal disconnect. Her quotes throughout the play showcase her superiority complex, lack of empathy, and rigid adherence to... Show more
Mrs. Birling: A Character Analysis Through Quotes
Mrs. Sybil Birling, a prominent character in J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls," embodies the entrenched attitudes of the upper class in early 20th-century Britain. Her dialogue throughout the play provides a window into her personality, beliefs, and the societal norms she represents.
Superiority and Class Prejudice
Mrs. Birling's character is defined by her strong sense of superiority and class prejudice. This is evident in several of her Mrs Birling quotes, particularly when discussing Eva Smith:
Quote: "As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money"
This statement reveals Mrs. Birling's assumption that working-class individuals are primarily motivated by financial gain, demonstrating her lack of understanding of their values and struggles.
Quote: "Girls of that class"
The use of this phrase further emphasizes Mrs. Birling's rigid class distinctions and her belief in the inherent inferiority of those from lower social strata.
Lack of Empathy
Mrs. Birling's character is marked by a striking lack of empathy, particularly towards those she considers beneath her social standing. This is evident in her dismissive attitude towards Eva Smith's plight:
Quote: "I'll tell you what I told her, Go & look for the father of that child"
This Mrs Birling quote about Eva showcases her callousness and unwillingness to offer assistance to someone in desperate need.
Quote: "She only had herself to blame"
This statement further underlines Mrs. Birling's lack of compassion and her tendency to blame victims for their circumstances.
Arrogance and Privilege
Mrs. Birling's character is deeply rooted in her privileged background, which manifests as arrogance in her interactions:
Quote: "Edna'll go. I asked her to wait up & make us some tea"
This casual command to a servant highlights Mrs. Birling's sense of entitlement and her view of lower-class individuals as existing to serve her needs.
Quote: "I was the only one of you who didn't give in to him"
This Mrs Birling quote demonstrates her pride in her own perceived strength and superiority, even in the face of the Inspector's questioning.
Ignorance and Denial
Mrs. Birling's character is also marked by a willful ignorance of realities that don't align with her worldview:
Quote: "Surely you don't mean Alderman Meggart"
This statement, in response to learning about Eric's drinking problem, shows Mrs. Birling's reluctance to accept uncomfortable truths about her own family.
Unrepentant Attitude
Perhaps most tellingly, Mrs. Birling remains unrepentant even when confronted with the consequences of her actions:
Quote: "I did nothing I'm ashamed of"
This Mrs Birling responsibility quote encapsulates her inability to recognize her own culpability in Eva Smith's tragedy.
In conclusion, Mrs. Birling's character, as revealed through her quotes, represents the entrenched attitudes of the upper class in early 20th-century Britain. Her superiority complex, lack of empathy, and rigid adherence to class distinctions make her a pivotal figure in the play's exploration of social responsibility and the consequences of unchecked privilege.
Highlight: Mrs. Birling's character serves as a critique of the upper class's disconnect from the realities of working-class life and the devastating consequences this can have on individuals like Eva Smith.
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.
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
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