An Inspector Calls: Mr Birling

Hi,

For Section A of Lit Unit 1, you have to answer one essay question on An Inspector Calls (from a choice of two). Here are the question focuses from the past papers:

June 14:

•  gender
• the importance of Eva Smith

June 13:

• the ending
• Eric

Jan 13:

• Mrs Birling
• the significance of social class

June 12:

• Inspector Goole
• the opening stage directions

Jan 12:

• responsibility (you've done this for your CA!)
• Gerald

June 11:

• contrasts
• Sheila

Jan 11:

• tensions in the family
• selfishness 

So what could come up in your exam? The answer is... almost anything. You need to be prepared for a range of questions.

However, it's likely that your question will either be something that has not been covered before - or something that hasn't been covered for a while. Could Sheila be back? Could we hit the jackpot and write about responsibility again? I also like the 'contrasts' question: think young/old, rich/poor, capitalist/socialist, realism/the unreal ending. Dichotomies.

But I think there's a very good chance that it could be Mr Birling. So what might a Mr B question look like? How about these?

• How does Priestley undermine Mr Birling in An Inspector Calls?
• Mr Birling is a static character and is nothing more than a personification of capitalism. How does Priestley use Mr Birling to criticise capitalism?

Here's some thoughts about how to structure an answer to one of these questions:


Intro - first impressions:
stage directions and early dialogue - 'provincial speech' and manner hints at modest roots, but he's very quickly forgotten where he came from. Selfish and business obsessed - even at daughter's engagement: 'lower costs and higher prices' - Priestley hinting at his attitude towards his workers. Desperate to impress Gerald and possibly insecure. Hints that he's not as 'comfortable' as he tries to make out. Worries about the Crofts not being there and whether the celebration is lavish enough.

Dramatic irony:
Titanic - obvious reference which makes him sound buffoon-like. Repetition and categorical assertions ('unsinkable... absolutely unsinkable) highlight his over-confidence. War - more emotive. The references to 1940, Russia and H.G Wells/G.B Shaw would resonate with a 1940s audience in particular, and highlight the capitalist/socialist dichotomy.

Interrogation:
His attempts to intimidate Goole show that he's self-important and feels like he should be above the law. He is set up for a fall. Defensive quotes: 'If everyone was responsible...awkward.' etc. Euphemisms: 'horrid business'.

Comments on the interrogation of others:
Initially seems glad to not be the only one involved. Criticises others. Defends Gerald's adultery etc.

Realisation:
'Inspector, I'd give thousands' etc.

Ending:
Ends up laughing at the 'famous younger generation'. Circular structure mirrors his return to complacency. Somewhat lighthearted, silly language shows his growing excitement at getting away with it. 'By jingo, a fake.'

Conclusion:
Birling = capitalism. Static character intended to personify all the faults and complacency of Edwardian England - which led us, in Priestley's view, to war. Characterisation is not subtle - we are meant to see him as a buffoon from the very start. Whatever he says after the Titanic reference is not to be trusted - neither are his capitalist views. Titanic as metaphor for Birlings with their confidence, wealth and ultimately, their downfall.



I hope that makes sense and seems like a sensible approach. Your next step should be to find the quotes to go with this plan. Why not have a go at writing it? It could be your exam question! In addition, I've found this helpful revision powerpoint. Take a look.

  

Keep revising - and let me know if you need anything.




Mr M