Quotes & Analysis for Inspector Calls Characters

• What does Mr. Birling claim about the Titanic?

  “Unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable.”
• What does the dramatic irony in Mr. Birling's quote about the Titanic reveal?

  It highlights his overconfidence and ignorance.
• How does Mr. Birling's belief in capitalism relate to his statement about the Titanic?

  It reflects his belief in wealth's invincibility.
• What contemporary event heightens the irony of Mr. Birling's statement about the Titanic?

  The Titanic disaster of 1912.
• What does Sheila Birling say about her feelings of blame?

  “I know I’m to blame—and I’m desperately sorry.”
• How does Sheila's acceptance of blame contrast with her parents' behavior?

  Sheila shows emotional maturity, unlike her parents.
• What does Sheila's character development signify in the context of the play?

  Hope for the younger generation's moral growth.
• What does Sheila's recognition of the working class signify?

  It emphasizes the need for empathy and class consciousness.
• What does Eric Birling admit about his state of mind?

  “I was in that state when a chap easily turns nasty.”
• What does Eric's admission reveal about his character?

  It shows his immaturity and impulsiveness.
• How does Eric's willingness to confront his actions contrast with Mr. Birling?

  Eric shows guilt, while Birling avoids blame.
• What does Eric say to express his frustration with his parents?

  “You don’t understand anything. You never did.”
• What does Eric's outburst signify about generational tension?

  It reflects the youth's rejection of traditional values.
• How does the Inspector's quote about responsibility encapsulate Priestley's ideology?

  It emphasizes the interconnectedness of society.
• What prophetic warning does the Inspector give about societal consequences?

  “If men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish.”
• What does the imagery of fire and blood symbolize in the Inspector's warning?

  It represents the destructive force of social unrest.
• How does Mrs. Birling's denial of shame reflect her character?

  It illustrates her self-righteousness and moral blindness.
• What does Mrs. Birling say about her feelings towards her actions?

  “I did nothing I’m ashamed of.”
• How does Mrs. Birling's statement amplify the play's irony?

  She contributed to Eva's downfall yet feels guiltless.
• What does Mrs. Birling say about Eva's situation?

  “I’m very sorry. But I think she had only herself to blame.”
• What does Mrs. Birling's refusal to take responsibility illustrate?

  It shows entrenched class prejudices in her worldview.
• How does Eva Smith's description symbolize the working class?

  It emphasizes their dignity and tragic fate.
• What does Eva say about her experience asking for money?

  “I was a girl who had to ask for money.”
• What does Eva's reliance on charity reveal about her social class?

  It exposes economic inequality and lack of opportunities.
• How does Edna's minimal dialogue symbolize the working class?

  It underscores their marginalization and invisibility.
• What does Edna say to Mrs. Birling?

  “Good night, madam.”
• What are the key themes represented by Mr. Birling's character?

  • Overconfidence and hubris
  • Capitalist exploitation of the working class
  • Moral blindness and hypocrisy
• What are the key themes represented by Sheila Birling's character?

  • Self-reflection and moral responsibility
  • Character development and social consciousness
  • Critique of capitalist views and class consciousness
• What are the key themes represented by Eric Birling's character?

  • Immaturity and impulsiveness
  • Generational tension and moral reckoning
  • Disillusionment with traditional values
• What are the key themes represented by the Inspector's character?

  • Central moral message of collective responsibility
  • Rhetoric and didacticism in moral teaching
  • Prophetic warnings about social consequences
• What are the key themes represented by Mrs. Birling's character?

  • Moral defensiveness and self-righteousness
  • Class prejudice and moral blindness
  • Hypocrisy of the upper class
• What are the key themes represented by Eva Smith's character?

  • Symbol of the working class and social injustice
  • Tragic victim of economic inequality
  • Contrast between her plight and the Birlings' privilege
• What are the key themes represented by Edna's character?

  • Symbolism of silence and marginalization
  • Representation of the working class's invisibility
  • Reflection of the silent suffering of lower-class individuals