AIC - 1.1.2 Act 1 Key Quotations Flashcards
“I can’t accept any responsibility.”
Mr B argues that his involvement was so small it could not have led to Eva’s death. He also implies Eva’s misfortune was her own fault.
“A man has to make his own way - has to look after himself - and his family too”
Birling is seen trying to educate Gerald and Eric on how he thinks the world should work - he encourage them to only care about themselves and not help anyone else. He thinks if people fail, it’s their own fault.
What are the main quotes said by Mr Birling in Act 1?
“I can’t accept any responsibility”
“A man has to make his own way - has to look after himself - and his family too.”
“Arthur, you’re not supposed to say such things”
Mrs B has strong view on appropriate conversation topics and often scowls Mr B. Although patriarchal society means Mr B is incharge, Mrs B still has little power over him.
“When you’re married you’ll realise that men with important work to do sometimes spend nearly all of their time and energy on their business. You’ll have to get used to that, just as I had to.”
Mrs B highlights gender difference in pre-war britain - woman generally had less power than men, Even higher-class women were less powerfull and Mrs B highlights this by teaching her daughter the expectations of a women.
“So I’m really responsible?”
Sheila’s first reaction is to take responsibility for her actions and acknowledges her role in Eva’s death. Contrasts with Mr B complete denial.
“Why - you fool - he knows!”
Sheila shows maturity as she knows that the inspector knows everything and they cannot hide anything from the Inspector. She knows the inpector is asking question to get the Birlings to realise there actions and involvment.
“Is it the one you wanted me to have … now I really feel engaged”
upper-class women got fancy rings to show their father that someone else also owns them (ownership). Now that Sheila has a ring she feels the new ownership.
What are the 3 main quotes said by Sheila in Act 1?
“So I’m really responsible?”
“Why - you fool - he knows!”
“Is it the one you wanted me to have … now I really feel engaged”
What views is Mr Birling promoting with this quote?
‘A man has to make his own way - has to look after himself – and his family too’
If people fail, it’s their own fault.
Selfish Capitalist views.
Men should only think about themselves and not help anyone else in society.
