JB Priestley: An Inspector Calls

Mr Birling says, '...a man has to mind his own business and look after himself and his own'.

How far does Priestley present Mr Birling as a man who cares only for himself and his family?

Write about:
• what Mr Birling says and does
• how far Priestley presents Mr Birling as a man who cares only for himself and his family.

1. **Introduction:** State your argument in response to the question. Agree that Priestley presents Mr Birling as selfish, and briefly outline the points you will make (his capitalist views, his treatment of Eva Smith, his reaction to the Inspector's revelations). 2. **Paragraph 1 (Capitalist Ideology):** Analyse the quote provided in the question. Discuss how his speeches at the start of the play establish his character as arrogant, complacent, and a mouthpiece for capitalist self-interest. Use quotes like 'a man has to mind his own business' and his dismissal of 'community and all that nonsense'. 3. **Paragraph 2 (Actions towards Eva Smith):** Discuss his sacking of Eva Smith for asking for a small pay rise. Explain how this action demonstrates his priority of profit over people's welfare. Link this to his lack of social responsibility. 4. **Paragraph 3 (Reaction to the Inspector):** Analyse how Mr Birling's main concern throughout the inspection is to protect his reputation and avoid a 'public scandal'. Discuss his attempts to intimidate the Inspector and his relief when he believes it was a hoax. 5. **Paragraph 4 (Family Concern):** Explore the idea that his concern for his family is also tied to his own self-interest. For example, his concern about Sheila's engagement is partly about the business merger between Birling and Co. and Crofts Limited. 6. **Conclusion:** Summarise your points, reiterating that Priestley uses Mr Birling as a symbol of the selfish individualism he believed was damaging society. Conclude that he is presented as a character who fails to learn the Inspector's lesson of collective responsibility.