An insect calls Flashcards
Quotes
“A man has to make his own way—has to look after himself—and his family, too, of course, when he has one—and so long as he does that he won’t come to much harm,”
This shows his selfish views towards other people, and that he does not believe in social responsibility. He despises the idea of aiding those in need, and who want a more caring society.
‘I’m treating Gerald like part of the family’
While Birling states he is treating Gerald as a family member, his true motive is likely to attempt to befriend Gerald so his business can expand with help from Crofts limited, highlighting the fact that he seemingly prioritizes his business over his daughter’s happiness.
‘Nothing much has happened! Haven’t I already said there will be a public scandal –unless we’re lucky- and who here will suffer more from that than I will?’
This again highlights Birlings selfish beliefs, as he does not even mention the fact that Eva Smith has died and is more concerned about his reputation. It also shows that he does not show any signs of feeling guilt for Eva Smith’s death, despite it being partly his fault.
‘’The wretched girl’s suicide’’
This highlights Birlings lack of empathy towards others, calling insulting Eva even though she is now dead, showing his lack of respect for the working class.
‘’You’d think everybody must look after everybody else, as if we were mixed up together like bees in a hive- community and all that nonsense’’
It is significant that the inspector arrives at this moment, as Mr Birling is propounding the philosophy of individualism.
‘’For lower costs and higher prices’’
This again shows that Priestly uses Birling to represent capitalism and shows how much Mr Birling prioritizes making money.
‘’Oh, How horrible!’’
This again shows Sheila’s empathy towards others, contrary to her fathers beliefs over social responsibility.
‘’But these girls aren’t cheap labour, they’re people.’’
This suggests that Sheila has a social conscience and is much more empathetic than her father.
‘’Yes, I remember- (but he checks himself)
This shows that Eric is eager to join in the conversation, possibly as he seems to be on edge, but it is likely that he was about to mention Eva, so he abruptly stops.
Why shouldn’t they try for higher wages? We try for the highest possible prices. And I don’t see why she should have been sacked just because she’d a bit more spirit than the others.
Priestley is keen to show the audience that Eric has more of a sense of social responsibility than Gerad and his own parents – he understands Birlings underpaid workforce.
‘What an expression, Sheila! the things you girls pick up these days’
Mrs Birling quickly criticises Sheila saying ‘squiffy’ as it is a use of informal language, showing Mrs Birling’s hatred of the working class.
I think you remember Eva Smith now, dont you, Mr Birling?
implying the Inspector already knows the facts the Birlings are trying to hide, knows exactly how the events of the evening will proceed, also shows he is in control.
(We hear the sharp ring of a doorbell. Birling stops to listen)
The inspector arrives as Mr Birling is saying how ridiculous social responsibility is, showing that the inspector will challenge his views
Oh – just before you came – I’d been giving these young men a little good advice. Now – about this girl, Eva Smith.
The fact that Mr Birling refers to Eric as a ‘young man’ while he refers to Eva Smith as a ‘girl’ shows his sexist attitude.
