Character Analysis: Mrs. Birling

Question 1

Analyse:

“ a rather cold woman”

Answer 1

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

Question 2

Analyse:

“ you’re not supposed to say such things”

Answer 2

language of reprimands based on superficial appearances.

Question 3

Analyse:

‘I accept no blame for it all’

Answer 3

defiant assertion

Question 4

Analyse:

“ girls of that class”

Answer 4

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

Question 5

Analyse:

“ absurd business”

Answer 5

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

Question 6

Analyse:

“You know, my husband was Lord Mayor”

Answer 6

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.

Question 7

Analyse:

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

Answer 7

noun phrase portrays the hypocrisy of her work.

Question 8

Analyse:

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

Answer 8

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’