Mr Birling

• Who is Arthur Burling in "An Inspector Calls"?

  Head of the Burling family
• What is Arthur Burling's profession?

  Self-made businessman owning a factory
• What societal context is "An Inspector Calls" set in?

  Early 1900s, before World War I
• What does a static society mean in the context of the play?

  Rich stay rich, poor stay poor
• How were women treated in the early 1900s according to the play?

  They did not have the right to vote
• How does Mr. Burling's character represent the dominant figures of his time?

  He is wealthy, male, and influential
• What is Mr. Burling's attitude towards his own voice?

  He enjoys making long speeches
• How does Mr. Burling react when Eric interrupts him?

  He cuts Eric off and belittles him
• What does Mr. Burling claim about his business acumen?

  He calls himself a hard-headed practical man
• What does Priestly suggest about Mr. Burling's insecurities?

  He uses a brash facade to cover them
• How does Mr. Burling's background affect his character?

  He grew up in a lower social class
• Why is the prospect of a Knighthood important to Mr. Burling?

  He craves validation from the upper classes
• How does Mr. Burling view his workers?

  He sees them in terms of profits and losses
• What does Mr. Burling's statement about making one's own way imply?

  He prioritizes individualism over community
• How does Mr. Burling react to the inspector's inquiries?

  He tries to intimidate the inspector
• What does Mr. Burling's arrogance reveal about his character?

  He is shortsighted and dismissive
• How does Mr. Burling's view of capitalism affect his relationships?

  He uses family as tools for success
• What is the dynamic between Mr. Burling and Inspector Goole?

  They have opposing worldviews and politics
• How does Mr. Burling respond to the inspector's revelations?

  He remains stubborn and unrepentant
• What does Mr. Burling's character arc reveal about him?

  He lacks evolution and remains unchanged
• What does the cyclical presentation of the play signify?

  Characters fail to learn their lessons
• What does Mr. Burling's final statement about money imply?

  He thinks he can buy his way out
• How does Priestly criticize capitalism through Mr. Burling?

  He highlights the self-serving mindset
• What does the play suggest about the consequences of Mr. Burling's attitudes?

  They lead to social inequalities and mistakes