Arthur Birling

• Arthur Birling


  Arthur Birling is a central character in J.B. Priestley’s An Inspector Calls. His character represents the capitalist and self-serving attitudes of the upper class.
• Arthur Birling


  Role and function:

  Arthur is the patriarch of the Birling family and a prosperous businessman. He is celebrating his daughter Sheila’s engagement to Gerald Croft, which he sees as a beneficial business alliance. Throughout the play, Arthur’s interactions with Inspector Goole and his responses to the revelations about Eva Smith reveal his core values and beliefs.
• Arthur Birling 


  Character traits:

  Arthur is characterised by his arrogance, self-confidence, and unwavering belief in capitalism. He prides himself on being a “hard-headed businessman” and is dismissive of social responsibilities. Arthur’s lack of empathy and moral blindness are evident in his refusal to accept any responsibility for Eva Smith’s fate. He is more concerned with protecting his reputation and business interests than acknowledging the impact of his actions on others.
• Arthur Birling 


  Symbolism:

  Arthur symbolises the capitalist mindset and the moral shortcomings of the upper class. His belief in individualism and self-reliance contrasts sharply with the play’s message of social responsibility and interconnectedness. Arthur’s dismissal of the possibility of war and his confidence in the unsinkability of the Titanic further symbolise his ignorance and hubris.
• Arthur Birling 


  Impact on other characters:

  Arthur’s attitudes and actions significantly influence the other characters, especially his children, Sheila and Eric. His steadfast refusal to accept responsibility for Eva Smith’s death and his attempts to undermine the Inspector’s authority highlight the generational divide and differing attitudes towards social responsibility. Arthur’s character serves as a foil to Sheila and Eric, who eventually recognise their moral failings and seek to change.
• Arthur Birling


  Themes:

  Arthur’s character is central to the play’s exploration of themes such as capitalism, social responsibility, and the failings of the upper class. His actions and attitudes exemplify the dangers of unchecked capitalism and the lack of empathy among the wealthy. Through Arthur, Priestley critiques the societal norms that prioritise profit over people and emphasises the need for a more compassionate and socially responsible society.
• Arthur Birling


  Conclusion:

  Arthur Birling is a pivotal character whose attitudes and actions embody the play’s critique of capitalism and moral complacency. His refusal to accept responsibility and his focus on self-interest highlight the need for social change and the importance of considering the impact of one’s actions on others. Through Arthur, Priestley urges the audience to reflect on their own values and the role they play in creating a just and equitable society.