7 Essential Mrs. Birling Quotes That Reveal Her Character

Nov 18, 2024 · 7 min read

This article explores seven pivotal quotes from Mrs. Birling in J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls," highlighting her character traits, social attitudes, and moral hypocrisy. Through these essential quotes, readers gain insight into her privileged background, rigid beliefs, and the impact of her actions on others, ultimately unraveling the complexities of her character.

Hadwin Maverick

Editorial and Creative Lead

7 Essential Mrs. Birling Quotes That Reveal Her Character

Mrs. Birling is one of the pivotal characters in J.B. Priestley’s play "An Inspector Calls." Through her dialogue, Priestley reveals much about her personality, her social views, and the hypocrisy that often accompanies privilege. Here are 7 essential quotes from Mrs. Birling that not only highlight her character but also reflect the broader themes of class and morality within the play.

1. "I don't know. Perhaps it was because influence or plain bad luck - I don't know."

Mrs. Birling’s dismissive attitude towards the struggles of others becomes apparent in this quote. It encapsulates her detachment from the lower classes. Her inability to acknowledge that social influence can lead to different outcomes in life shows her ignorance and privilege. 🌍

2. "I did nothing I’m ashamed of."

This quote is a powerful reflection of Mrs. Birling's self-righteousness. Throughout the play, she refuses to accept responsibility for her actions. Her belief that she has acted correctly highlights her moral blindness. This often leads the audience to question her values and ethics, shedding light on her deeply flawed character. ⚖️

3. "You must understand that a lot of young men..."

Mrs. Birling's condescending tone is evident here. Her attempt to downplay the seriousness of societal issues reflects her upper-class values. She believes that the struggles of young men in society are insignificant compared to her family’s status. This reinforces the theme of social responsibility that runs throughout the play. 💼

4. "That – I consider – is a trifle impertinent, Inspector."

In this quote, Mrs. Birling’s inability to accept criticism is clearly shown. She perceives the Inspector's questions as an affront to her dignity. This defensiveness exemplifies her sense of superiority and entitlement, making it evident that she lives in a bubble of privilege that shields her from reality. 🕵️

5. "But I think she had only herself to blame."

Perhaps one of the most revealing quotes, this statement exhibits Mrs. Birling's cruel dismissal of the character Eva Smith. Instead of empathizing, she places blame on her, showcasing a heartless attitude towards those less fortunate. This highlights her lack of awareness about the systemic issues that drive poverty and suffering. ❌

6. "I’m very sorry, but I think she only had herself to blame."

This repetition of her sentiments towards Eva shows that Mrs. Birling is unwilling to change her viewpoint, reinforcing her rigid nature. Her inability to see beyond her own social context adds to the dramatic tension in the play, as audiences recognize the consequences of her ignorance. 💔

7. "It's simply absurd in the circumstances."

In this line, Mrs. Birling demonstrates her disdain for the Inspector’s investigation. Her dismissal of the situation as "absurd" reveals her deep-rooted belief that her social standing places her above scrutiny. This arrogance ultimately contributes to her tragic downfall, showcasing the play's critique of elitism and moral irresponsibility. 📉

Important Notes

Mrs. Birling is a character that serves as a vehicle for Priestley’s messages about class, social responsibility, and moral failure. Her quotes illustrate the consequences of an unyielding adherence to outdated values and the inability to adapt in a changing world.

These quotes serve to not only reveal Mrs. Birling's character but also to critique the societal norms that uphold her values. In the context of "An Inspector Calls," Mrs. Birling embodies the rigid class structure of early 20th-century Britain, making her a vital character for understanding the play's social commentary.