1: Essay Question on An Inspector Calls
Sample Question:
“How does Priestley present the character of Mr. Birling in An Inspector Calls?”
Best Response:
Introduction:
In An Inspector Calls, J.B. Priestley presents Mr. Arthur Birling as a symbol of capitalist selfishness and social irresponsibility. Through Mr. Birling’s dialogue, actions, and interactions with others, Priestley critiques the attitudes of the upper class in early 20th-century Britain. Birling’s belief in individualism and his dismissive attitude towards social responsibility make him a key character in Priestley’s exploration of social inequality and moral responsibility.
Body Paragraph 1: At the beginning of the play, Mr. Birling is depicted as a confident, self-assured businessman who believes in the superiority of the upper classes. His speech about “a man has to mind his own business and look after himself” reflects his staunch belief in individualism and self-reliance. Priestley uses Mr. Birling to express the capitalist ideology, which disregards the needs of the working class. Mr. Birling’s arrogance is further evident when he dismisses the threat of war, stating “the Titanic… is unsinkable,” which not only reveals his overconfidence but also foreshadows his eventual failure to see the consequences of his actions.
Body Paragraph 2: Mr. Birling’s interactions with the other characters also highlight his self-centered nature. Throughout the play, he attempts to assert his authority, particularly over his daughter, Sheila, and son, Eric. For example, when Sheila asks about the family’s involvement in Eva Smith’s death, Mr. Birling brushes off her concerns, stating that “a good deal of what you’ve said is quite unnecessary.” This reflects his lack of concern for the well-being of others, particularly the lower classes, and his failure to acknowledge any responsibility for the events that transpired. Priestley uses Birling’s dismissive attitude to criticize the complacency of the ruling class.
Body Paragraph 3: As the play progresses, Mr. Birling’s refusal to accept any responsibility becomes more pronounced. When Inspector Goole reveals the truth about his involvement in Eva Smith’s dismissal, Birling’s immediate response is to deny any wrongdoing, claiming he was just following orders. His response to the inspector’s interrogation underscores his inability to empathize with the struggles of others and his determination to protect his reputation at all costs. In the final act, when Birling realizes that the inspector may not be a real police officer, he eagerly dismisses the entire investigation as a “hoax.” This shows his refusal to learn from the experience and highlights his moral blindness.
Conclusion: In conclusion, J.B. Priestley presents Mr. Birling as a character who embodies the selfish, self-serving attitudes of the upper class. Through Mr. Birling’s dialogue and actions, Priestley critiques the capitalist mindset that values profit over people and responsibility. Birling’s failure to recognize his role in the tragedy of Eva Smith’s death ultimately positions him as a representative of the societal flaws that Priestley sought to challenge in An Inspector Calls.
Why this is the best response:
- Clear Structure:
The essay has a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, ensuring a coherent and logical flow of ideas. - Focused on the Question:
The essay directly answers the question by analyzing Mr. Birling’s character in detail and consistently links back to the central themes of the play (capitalism, social responsibility, and moral failure). - Use of Specific Evidence:
The essay incorporates specific quotes from the play, such as Birling’s dismissal of the Titanic and his quote about individualism, which strengthens the argument and shows detailed understanding of the text. - Analysis of Themes:
The response ties Mr. Birling’s actions and views to broader themes in An Inspector Calls, such as class disparity and social responsibility, showing a deeper understanding of the play’s message. - Critical Engagement with Priestley’s Intentions:
The essay not only analyzes Mr. Birling as a character but also connects him to Priestley’s critique of social attitudes, helping to interpret the play in context.