Sybil Birling

• How does Priestley use Mrs. Birling's character in "An Inspector Calls"?

  To criticize class inequalities in Edwardian society
• What traits does Priestley attribute to Mrs. Birling?

  Bossy and controlling
• What is Mrs. Birling's relationship to her husband?

  She is his social superior
• What does Mrs. Birling's dialogue reveal about her character?

  She controls and reprimands others' actions
• How does Priestley set up conflict with Inspector Goole?

  By establishing Mrs. Birling as controlling
• How does Mrs. Birling react to Inspector Goole's comments?

  She finds them impertinent and offensive
• What does Mrs. Birling's discomfort with Inspector Goole represent?

  Wealthy class's complacency towards the law
• What do Mr. and Mrs. Birling expect from their connections in the police?

  To receive easier treatment from Inspector Goole
• What does Priestley suggest about the Birlings' view of the law?

  They see themselves as above the law
• How does Mrs. Birling respond to her connection with Eva Smith?

  She lies and defends herself initially
• What effect does Mrs. Birling's dialogue have on the audience?

  It builds tension and frustration
• What characteristics does Mrs. Birling share with women Priestley criticized?

  • Self-centered and egocentric
  • More concerned with personal lives
  • Indifferent to the struggles of others
• How does Priestley depict the situation for women like Eva Smith in 1912?

  Worsened by lack of government support
• What systems were lacking for women in 1912?

  No NHS, benefits, or contraception
• How does Mrs. Birling view the working class?

  She believes they are to blame for their situation
• What is suggested about Mrs. Birling's motives for joining the charity committee?

  She seeks power and social status
• What does the bell system in the Birling household signify?

  Outdated privilege and class structure
• How does Priestley view the use of domestic staff in 1945?

  As obsolete and outdated
• What does the presence of Edna highlight in the play?

  Outdated thinking of the Birlings
• How does Priestley question the morality of Edwardian society?

  • Through the depiction of privilege
  • By showing attitudes towards the less fortunate
  • Highlighting the disconnect between classes
• Where can more information about the video series be found?

  In the second updated edition of Mr. Barofsky
• What should viewers do if they found the video useful?

  Give it a thumbs up and subscribe