An Inspector Calls: Mrs. Birling Analysis
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Questions and Answers

What does Mrs. Birling's statement, "I accept no blame for it at all", reveal about her character?

  • She is willing to take responsibility for her actions, no matter the consequences.
  • She wants to protect her family at all costs.
  • She completely disregards any responsibility for her actions. (correct)
  • She is remorseful for her actions and wants to make amends.

What is the primary criticism Priestley makes about the upper class through Mrs. Birling's character?

  • The upper class is morally corrupt and lacks a sense of justice.
  • The upper class is too focused on their own wealth and status.
  • The upper class is incapable of love and compassion.
  • The upper class views the working class as inferior and deserving of exploitation. (correct)

How does Priestley use Mrs. Birling's words, "girls of that class", to expose social injustice?

  • He highlights the upper class's refusal to recognize the working class's need for social reform.
  • He illustrates the upper class's belief that working-class women are responsible for their own struggles.
  • He shows the upper class's disdain for the working class and their emotional complexities. (correct)
  • He criticizes the hypocrisy of the upper class who claim to be charitable but are not truly compassionate.

What theme of the play is emphasized by Mrs. Birling's denial of any responsibility for Eva Smith's death?

<p>The need for societal change and a more equitable society. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Mrs. Birling’s statement, "If the girl’s death is due to anybody, then it’s due to him", reveal hypocrisy?

<p>She blames the father of Eva's child for her death, but when she finds out it’s her son, she minimizes his responsibility. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Birling’s prejudice against the working class reveal about her?

<p>She has been raised to believe in social hierarchy and sees working-class individuals as inferior. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the dramatic effect of revealing that Eric is the father of Eva Smith's child?

<p>It exposes her hypocrisy and shows how easily she can abandon her principles when it suits her. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Priestley's portrayal of Mrs. Birling suggest about her role in society?

<p>She is a representative of the upper class who are blind to their own hypocrisy and privilege. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Mrs. Birling’s Responsibility

Mrs. Birling refuses to accept any blame for her actions, showing her cold nature.

Social Responsibility Theme

The play explores the theme of social responsibility, highlighting class exploitation.

Prejudice Against Working Class

Mrs. Birling exhibits bias against the lower class and sees them as inferior.

Upper Class Arrogance

Priestley criticizes the wealthy for their lack of compassion and change.

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Mrs. Birling’s Hypocrisy

She demands accountability from others but defends her family when it's convenient.

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Class Division

Mrs. Birling's behavior illustrates the divide between the rich and the poor.

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Social Injustice

Priestley exposes the social injustice faced by the working class in Edwardian society.

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Call for Compassion

Priestley urges society to challenge outdated views and embrace compassion.

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Study Notes

Mrs. Birling's Lack of Responsibility

  • Mrs. Birling refuses to accept responsibility for Eva Smith's suffering.
  • She states "I accept no blame for it at all," showcasing a cold, detached nature.
  • This exemplifies the upper class's tendency to exploit the working class without acknowledging consequences.
  • Her actions reflect a disregard for social responsibility, typical of the older generation.
  • Priestley criticizes the upper class's unwillingness to change and embrace compassion.

Mrs. Birling's Prejudice

  • Mrs. Birling demonstrates prejudice against the working class.
  • She dismisses Eva's plight, claiming her "elaborate fine feelings" were "absurd" for her position.
  • The phrase "girls of that class" reveals her view of working-class women as inferior.
  • She believes their emotions and values are different from those of the upper class.
  • Priestley uses this to expose social injustice and outdated class divisions.

Mrs. Birling's Hypocrisy

  • Mrs. Birling displays hypocrisy, demonstrating double standards.
  • She initially blames the father of Eva's child, yet tries to defend her own son, Eric, when discovered he is the father.
  • Her immediate shift in attitude exposes her hypocrisy and lack of true integrity.
  • Priestley uses dramatic irony to highlight her foolish condemnation of Eric before realizing the truth.
  • This further underscores the upper class's refusal to accept responsibility unless personally inconvenient.

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Description

This quiz explores Mrs. Birling's character in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. It delves into her lack of responsibility, prejudice against the working class, and hypocrisy. Through these themes, we see Priestley's critique of social injustice and class relations.

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