Mrs Birling

Question 1

Prejudiced… and why?

Answer 1

‘Girls of that sort’
‘Gross impertinence’
‘Naturally… prejudiced’
Was raised in high class (old money) so has class system engrained in her
Puts Eva down to gain power she lacks from her gender

Question 2

Apathetic/remorseless… and why?

Answer 2

‘Ridiculous airs’
‘Only had herself to blame’
‘Unlike the other three… I did nothing’
Contrast to the ideal woman - she is apathetic showing the negative influence of society
Alienates her own family to keep up appearance

Question 3

Privileged… and why?

Answer 3

‘Don’t want details… disgusting affair’
‘Surely you don’t mean Alderman Meggarty?’
‘Rude way he spoke to Mr Birling and me’
‘(with dignity)’
She has the privilege of being old money
Shows generational difference - she is more trusting of the abuser as he is the same generation - contrast to her treatment of Eric

Question 4

Central argument

Answer 4

Mrs Birling’s portrayal shows the negative attitudes and consequences of the older generation’s capitalist ideologies and class system

Question 5

Conclusion

Answer 5

Priestly does this to highlight the lack of change/responsibility in the older generation’s point of view in order to show the audience the need for change in the newer generations