Character Analysis: Mrs. Birling Flashcards

1
Q

Analyse:

“ a rather cold woman”

A

Modifier “ rather” alerts us to how her appearance reflects her lack of empathy

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2
Q

Analyse:

“ you’re not supposed to say such things”

A

language of reprimands based on superficial appearances.

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3
Q

Analyse:

‘I accept no blame for it all’

A

defiant assertion

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4
Q

Analyse:

“ girls of that class”

A

The word “That” is stressed to marginalise the lower classes, making a clear distinction

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5
Q

Analyse:

“ absurd business”

A

Mrs Birling speaks in euphemisms to avoid facing the truth and accepting responsibility

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6
Q

Analyse:

“You know, my husband was Lord Mayor”

A

She shows off her high status husband through the use of the subordinate clause. Mrs Birling thinks that using her social status
, would dismiss the inspector.

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7
Q

Analyse:

“ you refused her even the pitiable little bit of organised charity you had in your power to grant her”

A

noun phrase portrays the hypocrisy of her work.

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8
Q

Analyse:

“I don’t believe it. I won’t believe it…”

A

Emphatic statement The moment of suspense when Mrs Birling realises. it ‘s a pivotal moment since she was shocked by his response, which can be seen through her stage directions ‘thunderstruck’

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