Mr Birling

Question 1

Heavy-looking, ………. ………… man.

Answer 1

rather portentous
“Heavy-looking” suggests physical dominance and wealth.
“Portentous” implies self-importance and arrogance.
Establishes him as a symbol of capitalist greed.

Question 2

“I’m talking as a hard-headed, ……… …….. ……. ………………”

Answer 2

practical man of business
Sees himself as wise and authoritative.
Prioritizes profit over people.

Question 3

“The Germans …… …….. …….”

Answer 3

don’t want war.”
Dramatic irony—audiences know WWII happened.
Makes him seem foolish and out of touch.
Undermines his authority.

Question 4

“…………….., absolutely ……………….”

Answer 4

unsinkable
Refers to the Titanic (which sank), reinforcing dramatic irony.
Symbolizes his blind confidence in capitalism.
Suggests he ignores warnings and consequences.

Question 5

“A man has to …….. ……. …….. ………”

Answer 5

make his own way.”
Reflects individualistic, capitalist values.
Ignores the idea of community and responsibility.
Opposes the Inspector’s socialist message.

Question 6

“(…………. ……………..) Yes, yes. Horrid business.”

Answer 6

Rather impatiently
Dismissive tone shows lack of empathy.
Sees Eva’s death as an inconvenience, not a tragedy.
Reflects the selfishness of the upper class.

Question 7

“Look, Inspector— ……. ………. ………………..”

Answer 7

I’d give thousands
Tries to solve problems with money, showing capitalist values.
Ironic—he refused to give Eva a small pay rise.
Shows he values reputation over morality.

Question 8

“There’s every ….. …….. …… ………….. ……. …… …… .”

Answer 8

excuse for what your mother and I did
Refuses responsibility, unlike the younger generation.
Uses “excuse” to justify his actions.
Priestley critiques the older generation’s denial.

Question 9

(The ………. rings ………..)

Answer 9

Telephone, sharply
The final stage direction is abrupt and dramatic.
Suggests consequences are unavoidable.
Reinforces Priestley’s message that responsibility cannot be escaped.