Mr Birling

Question 1

What is the structure for a Mr Birling essay?

Answer 1

INTRO
• Represents capitalism + unwillingness to change
• Stubbornness, optimism, over-confidence + kindness (which could be forced)

P1 - Opening stage directions + behaviour
• “Heavy-looking, rather portentous man”
• “Very nice cable - couldn’t be nicer”

P2 - Speech
• "Hard-headed business man"
• "War impossible"
• "Silly little war scares"
• "Cranks"

P3 - Interrogation
• “It has nothing to do with this wretched girl’s suicide”
• “Look here, Inspector”
• “(About time you) Learnt to face a few responsibilities”

P4 - After Inspector
• “(Jovially)”
• “In fact, it makes all the difference”

CONC

Question 2

What is the role of Mr Birling?

Answer 2

• Represents capitalism
• Used to ridicule capitalism
• Represents lack of change -> Used to show risks of no change