How does the opening scene suggest that the Birlings are the 'perfect' family?
The father's a successful businessman. The mother works hard to keep up the Birlings' reputation in the community. The son works for the father in the family business. The daughter's engaged to the son of their competitor.
1 of 5
Give two examples of how the Inspector manages to unsettle Mr Birling.
1) The Inspector takes charge, Mr Birling wants to be in control. Mr Birling isn't used to being challenged. 2) The Inspector threatens Birling's middle-class values - the reputation of the company, his important connections. Birling is rattled.
2 of 5
List two things that were different in 1912 compared to today.
1) In 1912, only men who owned property could vote. Women weren't allowed to vote in national elections at all. 2) There was not as much government help in 1912 for people in need as there is today. This is why charities like Sybil's were important.
3 of 5
What is the effect of having one set for the whole play?
This helps make the atmosphere of the play seem more claustrophobic and intense. The room's like a kettle, just about to boil. It emphasises the Birlings' private and self-centred lifestyle and highlights the unwelcome arrival of the Inspector
4 of 5
Before the Inspector arrives, Arthur Birling makes a speech about the state of the world. Name one event that the audience know will happen after 1912 which prove he's wrong.
He says conflicts between workers and bosses will come to nothing. But there were many strikes between 1912 and 1945, including the General Strike of 1926, which saw the country grind to a halt for three days.
5 of 5
Other cards in this set
Card 2
Front
Give two examples of how the Inspector manages to unsettle Mr Birling.
Back
1) The Inspector takes charge, Mr Birling wants to be in control. Mr Birling isn't used to being challenged. 2) The Inspector threatens Birling's middle-class values - the reputation of the company, his important connections. Birling is rattled.
Card 3
Front
List two things that were different in 1912 compared to today.
Back
Card 4
Front
What is the effect of having one set for the whole play?
Back
Card 5
Front
Before the Inspector arrives, Arthur Birling makes a speech about the state of the world. Name one event that the audience know will happen after 1912 which prove he's wrong.
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