Question 1: Summarise Mr Birling's attitude towards social responsibility based on the scene summary.

Answer: He dismisses social responsibility and believes in individual success and capitalism.

Question 2: Identify and explain one literary technique used in the quote 'The Titanic is unsinkable.'

Answer: Irony; it highlights Birling's overconfidence and foreshadows the disaster.

Question 3: How does Priestley use the character of Mr Birling to critique Edwardian society?

Answer: Priestley portrays Birling as a symbol of the arrogance, ignorance, and self-interest prevalent among the upper class. His dismissive attitude towards social responsibility and his blind confidence in technological progress and capitalism critique the complacency that contributed to societal inequality. Through Birling’s character, Priestley invites the audience to reflect on the failures of the Edwardian era and the need for greater social awareness.

Question 4: What does the quote 'Germans don't want war' reveal about Birling's worldview?

Answer: It shows his naivety and overconfidence in international relations, and his dismissive attitude towards potential conflicts.

Question 5: Identify one literary device in the quote 'The Titanic is unsinkable' and explain its significance.

Answer: Hyperbole; it illustrates Birling’s exaggerated confidence in technology and his dismissive attitude towards potential dangers.

Question 6: Describe how Priestley uses dialogue to depict Birling’s character traits.

Answer: Priestley's dialogue captures Birling's boastfulness, arrogance, and dismissiveness. His speeches are confident and self-assured, often dismissing others’ opinions, which reveals his egotism and rigidity. Through his language, Priestley portrays Birling as a representative of a complacent, materialistic upper class.

Question 7: Choose the correct statement about Mr Birling's character:

Answer: b) He is self-centred and dismissive of social issues.

Question 8: Analyze how Priestley’s presentation of Mr Birling reflects his critique of capitalism.

Answer: Priestley presents Birling as a symbol of capitalist arrogance, emphasizing his focus on profit and status over social responsibility. His dismissive attitude and boastfulness highlight the greed and complacency of the upper class, which Priestley criticizes as harmful to society. The play encourages the audience to question these values and consider more collective, compassionate approaches.