Character Analysis: Mrs. Birling Flashcards
Analyse:
“ a rather cold woman”
Modifier “ rather” alerts us to how her appearance reflects her lack of empathy
Analyse:
“ you’re not supposed to say such things”
language of reprimands based on superficial appearances.
Analyse:
‘I accept no blame for it all’
defiant assertion
Analyse:
“ girls of that class”
The word “That” is stressed to marginalise the lower classes, making a clear distinction
Analyse:
“ absurd business”
Mrs Birling speaks in euphemisms to avoid facing the truth and accepting responsibility
Analyse:
“You know, my husband was Lord Mayor”
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.
Analyse:
“ you refused her even the pitiable little bit of organised charity you had in your power to grant her”
noun phrase portrays the hypocrisy of her work.
Analyse:
“I don’t believe it. I won’t believe it…”
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’