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Sybil Birling - Coggle Diagram
Sybil Birling
“A girl of that sort would never refuse money.”
"that sort" is used in a negative context mean to demean girls of a lower class such as Eva smith. This fits in with the classist views of when the play is set. Priestley vividly portrays the harsh and dehumanizing nature of how the lower class is treated to discourage society from continuing down this path.
This quote shows the cold and unnerving nature of Mrs. Birling to the audience. Priestley, by using Mrs. Birling to represent the society of that period is able to use her character to make indirect connotations about what's wrong with society.
Imperative verb "never" represents the solidified view on society Mrs. Birling has, also represents her stubbornness.
“Go and look for the father of the child. It’s his responsibility.”
Doesn't show any sympathy as Eva smith is of a lower class, places the blame on Eva instead of trying to identify other possible causes.
Reflect the society then of each looking after their own instead of helping others out as even the committee Sybil is part of offers not help.
Enforces patriarchal ideas as she expects the father to look after everything and provide for them.
“I’m very sorry. But I think she had only herself to blame.”
No hints of change in character even though it is quite far into the play, shows no remorse or responsibility. Tone is cold and uncaring.
Audience will realize that if all were like Mrs. Birling it would lead to a societal downfall. Her character is a warning to the world.
"I'm very sorry" Insincere as she immediately follows it up with "but", she only cares about her reputation and social standing, cold hearted as she blames the death girl.
“I was the only one who didn’t give in to him.”
Viewing a government official as the enemy for her own success connotes that she will do anything to maintain her reputation and presents her as a selfish character.
"give in" its like she is actively resisting co operation to help solve a murder. Placing own needs above the needs of many.
"him" refers to the Inspector, although he is an authority figure and is known to be solving a murder Sybil views him as an enemy as he possesses information which could hard the Birlings reputation and social standing.
“Please don’t contradict me like that.”
Sheila was only expressing her own opinions and is told to stop. The modern audience views this as a juxtaposition to modern society where freedom of speech for everyone is a basic right.
"Please" connotes false option of choice, though she is polite Sybil will not accept defiance from her daughter due to the submissive nature in which woman were regarded at the times.
She expects obedience from Sheila due to the societal expectations at the time.