Characters Flashcards
The Characters, what they represent and why they are important (quotations included)
How is Mr Birling presented throughout the play?
Arrogant, Capitalist, Sexist/Old fashioned views on women, Materialsitic and Possessive, ANTI - SOCIALIST
How is Mr Birling conveyed as arrogant? (Context and 2 Quotes)
“And I say there isn’t a chance of war.”
Described the Titanic as “unsinkable”
The play is set in 1912 but was published in 1946, well after we know that there has been a WW2 and the Titanic did infact sink.
How is Mr Birling conveyed as a Capitalist/Materialistic? (1 Quote)
“…we may look forward to the time when Crofts and Birlings are no longer competing but are working together - for lower costs and higher prices.”
Although it is his daughter’s engagement party, he focuses on his gain in business.
How is Mr Birling conveyed as Sexist? (1 Quote)
“…clothes mean something quite different to a woman..”
How is Mr Birling conveyed as Possessive?
“Is there any reason why my wife should answer questions from you, Inspector?”
He emphasises that Sybil is ‘his’ wife suggesting that he sees her as a possession. He does not allow Sybil to talk for herself here.
How is Mr Birling conveyed as Anti-Socialist?
2 Quotes
“As if we are all mixed up together like bees in a hive. Community and all that nonsense.”
“A man has to mind his own business and look after his own.”
Why is it significant Mr Birling is presented as an Anti Socialist?
He conveys the wrong and opposite attitudes that Priestley wants to convey. He is presented in a negative like through his arrogant personalityt so they audience develop a resentment for him and his attitudes.
How is Mrs Birling presented throughout the play?
Cold, Snobbish, Ignorant and uncaring nature.
How is Mrs Birling presented as cold and unsympathetic?
“A rather cold woman, and her husband’s social superior.”
“I didn’t like her manner.”
“She was claiming elaborate fine feelings and scruples that were simply absurd in a girl in her position.”
She is vindictive and judgemental of Eva.
How is Mrs Birling presented as ignorant?
“I blame the young man who was the father of the child.”
“He should be made an example of.”
“No, of course not. He’s only a boy.”
She couldn’t possibly believe herself to be wrong and is ignoring the fact that Eric is no longer an innocent, naive child.
How is Mrs Birling presented as snobbish?
“What an expression, Sheila! Really, the things you girls pick up these days!”
“Girls of that class.”
Sybil believes if people do not behave properly they should be looked down on and she does not respect those in the lower class.
How is Sheila presented at the opening of the play?
giddy, naïve, childish and materialistic
What does Sheila’s personality gradually develop to as the play continues?
She shows an assertive side, she is insightful and intelligent, and is regretful of her actions.
How is Sheila presented as childish?
“I’m sorry Daddy actually I was listening.”
“Yes, go on, mummy.”
“You’re squiffy!”
Despite being in her twenties, she refers to her parents as “Mummy” and “Daddy”.
How is Sheila presented as materialistic?
“Oh – it’s wonderful! Look – mummy – isn’t it a beauty?”
Her attention is fully focused on this beautiful ring rather than her future husband, she enjoys the idea of marriage and living in luxure rather than the idea of Gerald.
