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Which three characters best develop the theme of class. Justify your…
Which three characters best develop the theme of class. Justify your choice.
Mr Birling
Words "A man has to mind his own business and look after himself."
He believes that because he worked hard to succeed, the poor can, too. He believes that no one has a responsibility to the poor.
Actions: "You don't seem to care about anything... i was almost certain for a knighthood" (P.57).
He is so desperate to be upper-class that he becomes enraged that it might not happen. Thus, Eva's death is not as important as what it will cost him in the eyes of the wealthy.
Relationships
"Apparently nothing matters to you. But it may interest you to know that until every penny of that money you stole is repaid, you’ll work for nothing."
Author uses irony - he believes Eric doesn't care, when it is he who doesn't care about what has happened. His ideas cause him to conflict with Eric, part of a new generation who will come to recognise his responsibility to people like Eva.
Mrs Birling
Actions
Relationships
Words
Sheila
Words
Actions
Relationships
Class
CONTEXT: Edwardian - wealthy people had no obligation to the poor, an emerging sense of obligation amongst the younger generation.
Working Class: No welfare. Very hard. Women had very little access to help, were often mistreated.
Upper Class: Existed in own world, did not think of the lower classes, self-centred, "each according to his ability rather than need." Charity was about appearances.