MRS birling

Question 1

overview

Answer 1

Priestley uses the character of Mrs Birling in ‘An Inspector Calls’ as a vehicle to condemn the narrow minded, selfish and condescending mindset held by the older generation who belong to the capitalist upper class. Priestley advocates the importance of accepting social responsibility to the audience, which is in direct contrast to Mrs Birling’s self-serving and ignorant approach

Question 2

quote 1

Answer 2

“I’ll ring from the drawing room when we want coffee.” (P.2)

• As part of the upper class, Mrs Birling is used to having her requests met. The family’s employment of Edna indicates their social status.
• “When we want” shows their privilege as she receives whatever she asks for