Mr Birling ACT ONE

What does Mr. Birling personify?

• 
  Socialism

• Marxist values

• The aristocracy

• Capitalism

Answer explanation

Mr. Birling personifies Capitalism, as he represents the values of individualism, profit, and social hierarchy, contrasting with socialist ideals. His character embodies the capitalist mindset prevalent in early 20th-century society.

The description of his home as “substantial and heavily comfortable” shows what?

• He lives in an affluent milieu

• His house is homely and warm

• Links to the theme of capitalism

• His home is old-fashioned

Answer explanation

The phrase 'substantial and heavily comfortable' suggests a well-built and luxurious home, indicating that he lives in an affluent milieu, as it reflects wealth and a high standard of living.

Which literary technique describes “heavily comfortable”?

• Hyperbole

• 
  Paradox

• Oxymoron

• 
  Façade

Answer explanation

The phrase "heavily comfortable" combines contradictory terms, as "heavily" suggests weight while "comfortable" implies ease. This juxtaposition is characteristic of an oxymoron, making it the correct answer.

Which quote is a reference to Sir Stanley Baldwin?

• 
  “hard-headed practical man of business”

• 
  “rather portentous man in his middle fifties”

• 
  “rather provincial in his speech”

• 
  “heavy looking”

Answer explanation

The quote "hard-headed practical man of business" refers to Sir Stanley Baldwin, highlighting his pragmatic approach to politics and governance, distinguishing him from the other descriptions which are less specific.

How does Priestley indicate that Mr Birling is uncomfortable in his class?

• 
  He laments about his insecurities

• 
  Mrs Birling accuses him of it

• He is guilty of faux pas

• The inspector accuses him of it

Answer explanation

Priestley indicates Mr. Birling's discomfort through his faux pas, revealing his social insecurities and lack of awareness. His mistakes highlight his struggle to maintain his status, making him appear uncomfortable in his class.

In terms of his status, Mr Birling is a member of the_____

• 
  Aristocracy

• 
  Nouveau riche

• 
  Middle Class

• 
  Working class

Answer explanation

Mr. Birling is considered 'nouveau riche' as he is a self-made businessman who has recently acquired wealth, distinguishing him from the traditional aristocracy and established middle class.

“Port” is used as a ______ for wealth

• 
  Symbol

• 
  Euphemism

• 
  Metonym

• 
  Substitute

Answer explanation

The term "port" serves as a metonym for wealth, as it represents the economic activity and trade associated with a harbor, symbolizing prosperity and resources linked to maritime commerce.

Climbing the social ladder in the 20th century was only possible through _____

• 
  Investment

• 
  Wedlock

• 
  Hard work

• 
  Nepotism

Answer explanation

In the 20th century, social mobility was often achieved through strategic marriages, or wedlock, which provided connections and status. While hard work and nepotism played roles, wedlock was a primary means of climbing the social ladder.

Birling, similarly to Gerald, uses _______ to attempt to rid himself of any responsibility?

• 
  Paradoxes

• 
  Hyperbole

• 
  Hypocrisy

• 
  Sophistry

Answer explanation

Birling uses sophistry, which involves deceptive reasoning, to evade responsibility, similar to Gerald. This tactic allows him to manipulate the truth and deflect blame effectively.

The inspector is _______ Mr Birling?

• 
  The antithesis of

• 
  A replica of

• 
  Complementary to

• 
  Homogenous with

Answer explanation

The inspector represents moral responsibility and social awareness, contrasting sharply with Mr. Birling's capitalist and self-serving views. Thus, the inspector is the antithesis of Mr. Birling.