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An Inspector Calls: Birling Analysis Homework

In the extract from Act 1 of 'An Inspector Calls', Mr. Birling discusses his aspirations for a knighthood and his views on social status, revealing his self-importance and ambition. His dialogue showcases his confidence and complacency, as he believes his social standing is secure and that he must avoid scandal. This scene reflects the societal values of the time, emphasizing class distinctions and the importance placed on social reputation.

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Matthew Knight
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27 views2 pages

An Inspector Calls: Birling Analysis Homework

In the extract from Act 1 of 'An Inspector Calls', Mr. Birling discusses his aspirations for a knighthood and his views on social status, revealing his self-importance and ambition. His dialogue showcases his confidence and complacency, as he believes his social standing is secure and that he must avoid scandal. This scene reflects the societal values of the time, emphasizing class distinctions and the importance placed on social reputation.

Uploaded by

Matthew Knight
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

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An Inspector Calls –Homework


Birling: Thanks. (confidentially.) By the way, there's something I’d like to mention – in strict
confidence – while we're by ourselves. I have an idea that your mother – lady croft – while she
doesn't object to my girl – feels you might have done better for yourself socially –

// Gerald, rather embarrassed, begins to murmur some dissent, but Birling checks him.//

no, Gerald, that's all right. Don't blame her. She comes from an old country family – landed people
and so forth – and so it's only natural. But what I wanted to say is – there's a fair chance that I might
find my way into the next honours list. Just a knighthood, of course.

Gerald: Oh – I say – congratulations!

Birling: Thanks, but it's a bit too early for that. So don't say anything. But I’ve had a hint or two. You
see, I was lord mayor here two years ago when royalty visited us. And I’ve always been regarded as a
sound useful party man. So – well – I gather there's a very good chance of a knighthood – so long as
we behave ourselfs, don't get into the police court or start a scandal – eh? ( laughs complacently.)

Gerald: (laughs) You seem to be a nice well-behaved family –

Birling: We think we are –

1.) Read through the extract from Act 1 of An Inspector Calls. Gerald and Birling are alone in the
room and they end up discussing Gerald and Sheila’s pending marriage.

Answer the following question on this extract –

How does Priestley present Mr Birling’s character in this scene?

Success criteria:

o At least TWO detailed paragraphs


o Analyse language using correct subject terminology
o Explain the effect of your identified device – what
does it tell you about his character and why is it
effective?
o How does the reader feel because of your chosen
quotes/devices and explain why
o Link to historical context – what does this scene
imply about the society at the time?

Challenge: Analyse the structure of this scene – can you


identify a structural device which informs you about Mr
Birling’s character and explore its effect?

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