Mr Arthur Birling in Act 1 'An Inspector Calls'

How is Mr. Birling presented in Act 1 'An Inspector Calls'?

Appearance

He is described as heavy-looking, portentous' and 'provincial in his speech''

Capitalism:

Land, property and wealth are owned by a small minority of people

Capitalist

The Birlings

He is head of the Birling family and is a 'hard-headed practical man of business'

Engagement of his daughter

'The way some of these cranks talk...as if we're all mixed up together like bees in a hive - community and all that nonesense'

His strong belief is that 'a man has to mind his own business and look after himself'

On the engagement of Gerald Croft and Sheila:

He wants the Crofts and Birlings to work together for 'lower costs and higher prices' and seems less interested in his daughter Shelia's happiness.

Gerald Croft

Homework:

To research the definitions of Capitalism and Socialism

Due: Monday 16th May

Improve and extend your response:

How is Mr. Birling presented in Act 1 'An Inspector Calls'?

What is Mr Birling talking about as the door bell rings to announce the Inspector's arrival?