mrs. birling

• girls of that class

  encapsulates Mrs. Birling's prejudiced attitude towards Eva Smith, a working-class girl whose tragic story unfolds throughout the play. The dismissive use of "that class" reflects Mrs. Birling's belief in the social hierarchy and her disdain for those she considers inferior. The pause after "Girls" suggests a sense of superiority, as if Mrs. Birling is about to make a judgment based solely on Eva's social standing. This quote highlights the class divide and Mrs. Birling's lack of empathy or understanding for individuals outside her own social circle.
• I blame the young man who was the father of the child she was going to have


  Mrs. Birling's refusal to accept responsibility is evident in this quote. Instead of acknowledging her own role in Eva Smith's demise, she shifts the blame onto others, particularly the father of Eva's child. This reflects her lack of empathy and accountability, as well as her willingness to deflect guilt onto those she deems as beneath her. Dramatic irony. Mrs. Birling's refusal to accept Eric's culpability highlights her hypocrisy and selective morality.
•  Arthur you're not supposed to say such things


  Sheila demands Mrs Birling to 'stop these silly pretences' she has upheld from the beginning of the play. She wishes to conform to the stereotype of the upper class and preserve the illusion of a flawless family.
• You know of course that my husband was lord Mayor only two years ago and that he's still a magistrate


  reflects her attempt to assert her family's social status and importance in the community. By mentioning that her husband was the Lord Mayor and is still a magistrate, she seeks to intimidate or impress the Inspector, highlighting her belief in her family's elevated position. it underscores her sense of entitlement and superiority, suggesting that their social standing should exempt them from scrutiny or criticism.
• As if a girl of that sort would refuse money!


  Mrs. Birling's statement reflects her assumption that individuals from lower social classes are inherently motivated by financial gain and lack principles or integrity. By categorizing Eva Smith as "a girl of that sort," she dehumanizes her and reduces her to a stereotype based on her socio-economic background. This demonstrates Mrs. Birling's inability to empathize with Eva's circumstances or consider the complexities of her situation.