mrs birling Flashcards
(17 cards)
What are the main points on Sybil Birling’s to-do list?
1) Climb social ladder
2) Pretend to do charity work
3) Stamp out working-class revolt
4) Invite minor royal for dinner
5) Criticise children
What values does Sybil Birling prioritize?
Traditional values and social etiquette
What is etiquette?
A set of rules about social behaviour regarding what’s ‘acceptable’ and what isn’t
How does Sybil’s belief in social status affect her behavior?
It makes her prejudiced and cruel towards those of lower status
What does Sybil Birling think about moral rules compared to social etiquette?
She values social etiquette more than moral rules
How does Sybil demonstrate her cruelty?
By rejecting Eva/Daisy’s appeal for help
Fill in the blank: Sybil is _______ about her social status.
Proud
What does Sybil say that illustrates her traditional views?
“When you’re married you’ll realize…”
What does Sybil’s rejection of Eva/Daisy signify about her character?
Her prejudice and cruelty
What is Sybil’s relationship to Arthur Birling in terms of social status?
She is his social superior
How does Sybil react to Arthur’s comment about the food?
She tells him off for mentioning the cook in front of a guest
How does Sybil enforce social standards within her family?
By reminding them to have better manners and criticizing their behavior
What does Sybil say to the Inspector that shows her confidence?
“You have no power to make me change my mind”
Fill in the blank: Sybil’s social standards make her prejudiced against people from a _______ class.
Lower
What trap does Sybil walk into during the Inspector’s questioning?
She blames the father of the unborn child for Eva/Daisy’s suicide
Who does Sybil ultimately blame for Eva/Daisy’s situation?
The father of the unborn child
What does Sybil demand regarding her son in relation to Eva/Daisy’s suicide?
That he should be made to pay and confess publicly
