Characters - Arthur Birling Flashcards
(6 cards)
How does Arthur Birling view social responsibility?
- He believes it is not his concern and prioritizes wealth and social standing over people.
- “like bees in a hive - community and all that nonsense”
- Selfish and thinks about himself first and foremost “a man has to make his own way - has to look after himself”
What is one way Arthur Birling demonstrates his self-satisfaction during the play?
- He makes confident predictions about the future that reflect his arrogance (knighthood)
- Boasts about his wealth and experience, twice repeating the phrase “hard-headed business man”
How does Arthur Birling respond to criticism?
- He dismisses it and remains convinced of his own correctness.
- He is angered by it as he expects to command respect from the inspector as someone below his own social class.
How does the author show that Arthur’s confidence in his opinions and beliefs are misplaced ?
Author uses dramatic irony in the examples below to show Arthur isn’t as wise as he thinks.
- dismissing his son’s suggestion that there may be a war)
“And I say there isn’t a chance of war”
- About the Titanic “unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable”
The luxury of the Titanic could also be said to represent the wealthy Birling family - superior and unshakeable on the face of it, but it’s eventual sinking foreshadowing the demise of the Birlings.
Why is Arthur Birling particularly happy about his Daughter’s engagement to Gerald ?
Arthur Birling looks forward to working more closely with Gerald’s father (his business competition) “… for lower costs and higher prices…”
How does Priestley portray Arthur Birling as a dominant, patriarchal figure
- Symbolically placed at one end of the table to show his importance and head of the house. (Use of stagecraft)
- Gives orders (to staff, wife and children)
- Interrupts other characters and makes long speeches of his own (the author gives him the most lines at the beginning of the play to demonstrate his dominance)
