Quotes

• Quote 1

  • “A man has to mind his own business and look after himself and his own.”
  • Mr. Birling says this when talking about individual responsibility and self-reliance, which he believes should be the guiding principle of life.
  • This quote reflects Birling’s firm belief in capitalism and individualism, where people should only care about themselves and their families, ignoring any broader social responsibility. This attitude is one of the key themes of the play, especially when contrasted with the Inspector’s message of collective responsibility.
• Quote 2

  • “The Titanic... absolutely unsinkable.”
  • Mr. Birling says this with great confidence, attempting to show off his supposed knowledge of the world. He makes this statement during a family dinner, dismissing any concerns about the ship’s safety.
  • This quote is an example of Birling’s arrogant certainty in his own views. It also reflects the time period's blind optimism, which later becomes ironic as the Titanic famously sinks shortly after. This adds a layer of dramatic irony to the play and reinforces the theme of hubris and the overconfidence of the upper class.
• Quote 3

  • “If you don’t come down sharply on some of these people, they’ll soon be asking for the earth.”
  • Birling speaks about the need to keep working-class people in their place, particularly when discussing the workers’ strike and Eva Smith’s role in it.
  • Birling’s disdain for the working class is clear here. He is fearful of social change and the potential for equality, believing that the working class should remain subjugated. This quote reveals his belief in the inherent superiority of the upper class.
• Quote 4

  • “Just a minute, I tell you. I’ve got to get my statement out.”
  • Mr. Birling tries to maintain control of the situation by asserting authority over his family and the Inspector.
  • This shows Mr. Birling’s desire to maintain control and assert dominance in a male-dominated world. He sees himself as the head of the family and believes it is his role to dictate what happens. His patriarchal attitude is part of his broader sense of superiority.
• Quote 5

  • “I’ll tell you what I told her. Go and look for the father of the child. It’s his responsibility.”
  • Mr. Birling tells the Inspector that he believes Eric (his son) is responsible for Eva Smith’s pregnancy but denies any further involvement or responsibility himself.
  • Mr. Birling’s statement reveals his desire to distance himself from the situation and avoid any repercussions. He prioritizes his own reputation and wealth over any moral responsibility toward Eva Smith, demonstrating his selfishness and lack of empathy.
• Quote 6

  • “I’m not asking you to believe me, but I am telling you that the whole thing is quite a lot of nonsense.”
  • Birling dismisses the Inspector’s accusations and refuses to acknowledge the reality of how his actions may have harmed Eva Smith.
  • Birling shows his lack of respect for working-class people, dismissing their suffering as inconsequential. This quote underscores his belief that the working class should be ignored and that their problems are irrelevant to those in power.