Mr Birling Flashcards
Adjectives for Mr Birling
Arrogant, capitalistic, self important, dismissive of social responsibility , selfish
Mr Birling’s role in the play
Patriarch businessman, represents capitalistic views and older generation’s refusal to change
Represents capitalistic exploitation
“The way some of these cranks talk and write now, you’d think everybody has to look after everybody else”
Dismisses socialist ideas as “cranks,” showing his contempt for social responsibility.
Dramatic irony — the audience knows that collective responsibility is a key theme.
Reflects Priestley’s critique of capitalist self-interest.
“The Titanic… absolutely unsinkable.”
Symbol of dramatic irony — the audience knows the Titanic sank.
Undermines Birling’s authority, showing he’s arrogant and ignorant.
Priestley uses this to make the audience distrust him.
Hyperbole illustrates how out of touch he is from society
“A man has to make its own way- has to look after himself”
Arrogant and selfish. Highlights ideas of Social responsibility . Priestley’ wants audience to see Birling is wrong
Mr Birling’s development through the play
He shows no remorse for his role in Eva Smith’s death. Even after the inspector’s visit, he’s more concerned about his reputation than any moral lesson.
Priestly’s message through Mr Birling
Arthur represents the flaws of capitalism and ignorant self-interest. Priestley criticizes characters like him who deny responsibility and maintain unjust systems.
Themes with Mr Birling
Capitalism vs. Socialism
Responsibility
Class
Generational divide
“As if we were all mixed up together like bees in a hive”
He sees himself as better than those of working class
“We’re hard headed practical businessmen
Thinks highly of himself
wants to control the conversation
Repeats it many times
“A man has to look after himself- and his family”
Says himself before family showing his capitalistic and egotistical manner
“Lower cost and higher prices”
Driven by money and capitalistic values
Doesn’t consider impact of higher prices
Sees his daughter’s engagement as a business opportunity
More adjectives for Mr Birling
Greedy, patriarchal, sanctimonious, pretentious
Phrases to describe him
Driven by his desire to make mlney
Only concerned for self preservation
