4th quote

• Who speaks the quote "Fiddlesticks! The Germans don't want war. Nobody wants war."?


  Arthur Birling
• In which play does Arthur Birling make the statement about war?

  An Inspector Calls
• When is the play An Inspector Calls set?

  In 1912
• What does Birling express about the possibility of war during the dinner conversation?

  He believes that global conflict is unlikely and absurd
• What are the reasons Birling gives for believing that war is unthinkable?

  • International peace agreements
  • Technological advancements
  • Interconnectedness of trade
• What is the dramatic irony present in Birling's statement about war?

  It is made in 1912, before World War I and II, which the audience knows will occur
• How does Birling's statement reflect his character traits?

  It shows his hubris and misplaced confidence
• What does Birling's belief about war reveal about his social status?

  It reflects his overconfidence as a wealthy businessman
• What does Birling's worldview suggest about his beliefs regarding society and capitalism?

  • Belief in self-correcting nature of society
  • Faith in capitalism
  • Assumption that self-interest prevents violence
• What political realities does Birling fail to acknowledge?

  He ignores nationalism, imperialism, and militarism contributing to war
• How does Birling's perspective reflect a critique of the upper class in the play?

  It shows their blindness to social and political issues
• What is the social critique presented in An Inspector Calls regarding the Birlings' attitudes?

  • Emphasis on personal success and wealth
  • Blindness to moral responsibility
  • Ignorance of social inequality and discontent
• How does the Inspector's role contrast with Birling's views?

  The Inspector challenges Birling's complacency and urges responsibility
• What does Birling's declaration that war is "unthinkable" foreshadow in the play?

  It foreshadows the moral reckoning that will occur
• How does the Inspector serve as a wake-up call for the Birlings?

  He urges them to recognize their social responsibilities
• What illusion does Birling hold regarding his ability to predict the future?

  He believes he can control and predict future events