Arthur Birling's Character Introduction
J.B. Priestley introduces Arthur Birling as a central figure in "An Inspector Calls", setting the stage for an exploration of social responsibility and class dynamics. Birling is portrayed as a wealthy industrialist living in a large suburban house in Brumley, England, with his family.
Highlight: Arthur Birling is described as a "Heavy-looking, rather portentous man in his middle fifties with fairly easy manners but rather provincial in his speech".
This description immediately establishes Birling's imposing presence and hints at his provincial mindset, which becomes crucial to understanding his character throughout the play.
Birling's family consists of his wife Sybil, daughter Sheila, and son Eric. As the owner of a factory, he represents the capitalist class of the early 20th century. His aspirations for social climbing are evident in his enthusiasm for Sheila's engagement to Gerald Croft, seeing it as an opportunity for business expansion and increased profits.
Quote: Birling hopes that the marriage will lead to "lower costs and higher prices" for his company.
This statement reveals Birling's prioritization of business interests over personal relationships, a theme that recurs throughout the play.
Birling's Worldview and Attitudes
Arthur Birling's character is defined by his self-confidence and narrow worldview. He considers himself a "hard-headed businessman" who "knows what he's about", demonstrating a strong belief in his own judgment and abilities.
Highlight: Birling's naive optimism about the future and dismissal of potential global conflicts showcase his limited perspective.
His opinions on international affairs are marked by ignorance and prejudice. Birling makes racist remarks about "half-civilised folks in the Balkans" and dismisses Russia as "behindhand naturally". These views reflect the insular and often prejudiced attitudes of the British upper class during this period.
Example: Birling's assertion that the Titanic is unsinkable exemplifies his misplaced confidence in technological progress and societal stability.
This dramatic irony serves to undermine Birling's credibility and foreshadow the challenges to his worldview that will come later in the play.
