5 Powerful Mrs. Birling Quotes That Reveal Her True Character

Mrs. Birling, a character from J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls," is often seen as a representation of the upper class's moral hypocrisy and social responsibility. Throughout the play, her quotes encapsulate her attitudes and beliefs, offering insights into her character. In this article, we will explore five powerful quotes from Mrs. Birling that reveal her true character, helping us to understand her complex persona in the context of the play's broader themes.

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1. "I did not like her manner. She'd impertinently made use of our name, though she pretended afterwards it just happened to be the first she thought of."

This quote is a clear reflection of Mrs. Birling’s classist attitudes. She refers to Eva Smith's use of the Birling name as “impertinent,” showing her disdain for the lower class. It reveals her belief that her family's name should be revered and not associated with those she deems inferior. This indicates a lack of empathy and illustrates her entitlement, underscoring her role in perpetuating social inequality.

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2. "I accept no blame for it at all."

In this moment, Mrs. Birling is adamant about her lack of responsibility regarding the death of Eva Smith. Her refusal to accept any blame reveals her self-centered nature and an inability to acknowledge the consequences of her actions. It demonstrates her moral blindness and highlights one of the play's central themes: the interconnectedness of society and the impact of individual decisions.

Important Note: This attitude resonates with the idea that those in power often distance themselves from the repercussions of their decisions.

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3. "He ought to be dealt with very severely."

Mrs. Birling expresses her harsh judgment towards the character of Eric, her own son, when she hears about his connection to Eva Smith. Her inclination towards strict punishment for others demonstrates her authoritarian parenting style and her values. She believes in a strict moral code that she expects everyone to abide by, yet she fails to see her own family's flaws. This hypocrisy plays a crucial role in the unfolding drama.

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4. "You know of course that my husband was Lord Mayor only two years ago and that he's still a magistrate?"

Here, Mrs. Birling makes a point of highlighting her family's social status and connections. Her pride in her husband's former position as Lord Mayor showcases her belief that social class and power provide a shield against moral scrutiny. It emphasizes her elitist mentality and the way she leverages her status to evade accountability, reinforcing the divide between the wealthy and the poor.

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5. "That - I consider - is a trifle impertinent, Inspector."

In this interaction with Inspector Goole, Mrs. Birling dismisses his inquiries as disrespectful. Her defensiveness and condescension are evident here. The term “impertinent” suggests that she feels above reproach, reinforcing her sense of superiority. This moment captures her refusal to engage in a meaningful dialogue about her actions, as she prioritizes her pride over accountability.

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Conclusion

Through these powerful quotes, we see Mrs. Birling as a complex character steeped in the values of her social class. She embodies the themes of hypocrisy and social responsibility that Priestley explores in "An Inspector Calls." Her unwillingness to accept blame and her disdain for those she considers beneath her illustrate her true nature, allowing the audience to see the detrimental effects of privilege and arrogance. Mrs. Birling serves as a warning against the dangers of ignoring our interconnectedness and the moral obligations we have to one another.