Mrs B Flashcards
Mrs B overview
In the didactic play, An IC, Priestley uses the character of Mrs Birling to expose the hypocrisy & moral complacency of the upper class, while critiquing the lack of social responsibility among the Edwardian elite. Mrs Birling is presented as a callous and individualistic figure, self-assured in her own superiority and deeply entrenched in misogynistic values. Through her character, Priestley intends to condemn the avarice of the upper class and advocate for a more egalitarian society predicated on justice and fairness for all.
First topic statement
Mrs. Sybil Birling is a character who embodies the rigid upper-class values of early 20th-century Britain.
quote 1 “(reproachfully) Arthur, you’re not supposed to say such things—”
The phrase suggests a strict adherence to upper-class decorum. The use of “supposed to” implies rigid societal rules governing what is acceptable speech. This reflects her obsession with maintaining appearances.
quote 2 “Sheila! What an expression! Really, the things you girls pick up these days!”
The exclamation suggests immediate disapproval, emphasizing Mrs. Birling’s belief that certain forms of speech are improper for young women of their status .By policing Sheila’s words, she also attempts to control her worldview, reinforcing how language shapes identity and class consciousness
quote 3”(smiling) You’ll have to get used to that, just as I had.”
Mrs Birling suggests that women must endure certain hardships in marriage, likely referring to infidelity or emotional neglect. The phrase assumes submission as a necessity rather than a choice, reinforcing patriarchal values. Cyclical oppression
quote 4 ‘I don’t suppose for a moment that we can understand why the girl committed suicide. Girls of that class-‘
This phrase immediately distances Mrs Birling from Eva’s suffering, implying that the suicide is beyond her comprehension or concern. The dash at the end signals an abrupt halt, as if her prejudices are so ingrained that further elaboration is unnecessary.
quote 5 “Unlike the other three, I did nothing I’m ashamed of or that won’t bear investigation.”
Mrs. Birling sets herself apart, refusing to acknowledge any wrongdoing. The audience, knowing her role in Eva’s suffering, sees this as a damning statement. The phrase positions her against her own family, reinforcing the generational gap
“He certainly didn’t make me confess—as you call it.”
The phrase suggests that she rejects the very notion of a “confession,” as if it is an exaggeration. By distancing herself from the language of guilt, she refuses to acknowledge her moral failings.
“I was the only one who didn’t give in to him.”
Sees the Inspector as an Opponent: The phrase implies a power struggle rather than a moral reckoning.
Pride in Resistance: She takes pride in her obstinacy, failing to recognize it as a flaw.
