GCSE English Worksheet: An Inspector Calls - Mr Birling and Mythology
English
GCSE
8 questions
~16 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A comprehension worksheet focusing on the character of Mr Birling in 'An Inspector Calls', framed around mythological references and themes. It encourages analysis of characterisation and literary techniques, with some creative prompts linking to mythological ideas.
Worksheet Preview
Full preview • 8 questions
GCSE English Worksheet: An Inspector Calls - Mr Birling and Mythology
Subject: EnglishGrade: GCSE
Name:
Date:
TeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizzTeachWhizz
Untitled Worksheet
Grade GCSE
A
Introduction and Context
In J.B. Priestley's play 'An Inspector Calls', Arthur Birling is portrayed as a prosperous but self-important businessman. His persona is rooted in capitalist ideals and a dismissive attitude towards social responsibility. The play, set in 1912, reflects the societal tensions leading up to World War I, paralleling mythological themes of hubris and downfall. Birling's speech contains references to 'business', 'certainty', and 'progress', echoing mythic figures of pride and overconfidence who face tragic consequences. A key moment involves Birling’s dismissive remarks about workers' rights and his belief that 'the Titanic... cannot sink'. This hubris aligns with mythological figures such as Icarus, whose overambition leads to disaster. The play ultimately exposes the cracks in Birling’s worldview, revealing deeper moral and social failings.
B
Question 1
Answer briefly.
1.
In what way does Birling’s character reflect the mythological theme of hubris?
[2 marks]C
Question 2
Identify the literary technique used.
1.
What technique is employed here and what is its effect?
[2 marks]D
Question 3
Explain the symbolism.
1.
How does the Titanic serve as a mythological symbol in this context?
[3 marks]E
Question 4
Identify a literary device.
1.
What literary device is used here and what does it reveal about Birling?
[2 marks]F
Question 5
Analysis of character traits.
1.
Provide examples of Birling’s speech that demonstrate his arrogance.
[3 marks]G
Question 6
Creative writing prompt.
1.
Create a speech from Birling’s perspective embodying hubris and its inevitable consequences.
H
Question 7
Identify thematic links.
1.
What qualities does Birling display that align with the traits of a tragic hero?
[3 marks]I
Question 8
Interpretation and analysis.
1.
Does Birling’s confession indicate a lesson about hubris? Explain briefly.
[2 marks]Unlock Full Worksheet & Answers
Get instant access to the complete worksheet, answer keys, and 1,899 others
Unlimited answer keys for all worksheets
Download clean, formatted PDFs
Customize and remix any worksheet
Cancel anytime • No commitment • Start today
Quick Actions
What is Remix?
Create a new worksheet based on this one. Change the grade level, topic, number of questions, or difficulty - then generate a fresh version.
- • Change grade level (Grade 6 → Grade 7)
- • Swap topics (Harry Potter → Macbeth)
- • Add more questions (10 → 15)
- • Adjust difficulty
Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet