Social Class

Question 1

Introduction

Answer 1

Highlights stark divide between wealthy and poor

The Birlings use thief social status to maintain power

The okay urges upper class to acknowledge their privilege

Question 2

K.L.C.D

Answer 2

Keep labour costs down

The phrase reveals how workers are seen as mere commodities to be exploited for financial gain.
Priestley uses this to expose the inherent inequality in capitalist systems, where the lower class is sacrificed

Question 3

I.Y.D.C.D.S…T.S.B.A.F.T.E

Answer 3

If you don’t come down sharply… they’d soon be asking for the Earth

Mr. Birling’s warning about workers’ demands highlights the capitalist fear of workers asserting their rights
This reflects the system’s reliance on maintaining control over the working class through intimidation

Question 4

B.T.G.A.C.L.T.P

Answer 4

But these girls aren’t cheap labour - they’re people

highlights her moral growth, recognising that workers are human beings, not just economic resources.
Priestley uses this as a critique of the dehumanisation inherent in capitalist thinking.

Question 5

R.C.A.N.C

Answer 5

Respectable citizens and not criminals

Mr. Birling’s reference to “respectable citizens” reveals how capitalism relies on social status.
Priestley uses this to show how the upper classes hide their immoral actions under the guise of respectability

Question 6

G.O.T.C

Answer 6

Girls of that class

The phrase reflects the class prejudice that defines the upper class’s treatment of the working poor
Priestley critiques how the working class is viewed as inferior and undeserving of fair treatment.

Question 7

A.I.A.G.O.T.S.W.E.R.M

Answer 7

As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money

The classist assumption reflects the capitalist view of the poor as greedy and submissive, unable to make moral choices
Priestley critiques how social class dehumanises individuals and prevents them from being seen as moral equals.

Question 8

P.B.M.B.H.R.A.W.A.P

Answer 8

Public men, Mr Birling, have responsibilities as well as privileges

The Inspector’s statement calls out capitalist leaders who enjoy privileges without acknowledging their social responsibilities.
Priestley critiques the idea that power and wealth exempt individuals from moral responsibility

Question 10

M.O.E.S.A.J.S

Answer 10

Millions of Eva smiths and John smiths

The hyperbole of “millions” exposes the widespread, systemic exploitation of the lower class, showing that Eva’s fate is part of a broader class-based oppression.
Priestley uses this to challenge the capitalist system that exploits the many for the benefit of the few.