Mrs Birling: .. - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 7 - 2020 - Paper 1

In J.B. Priestley's play An Inspector Calls, power plays a crucial role in shaping the characters' relationships and societal dynamics. The character of Mr. Birling epitomizes patriarchal authority, exercising his power as a wealthy businessman to dominate both his family and employees. His dismissal of the workers’ strike illustrates how those in positions of power often neglect the suffering of the vulnerable in pursuit of profit.

Mrs. Birling's statement reflects her belief in the superiority of her social status, as she exclaims, 'you have no power to make me change my mind.' This highlights how social power can insulate individuals from accountability. The Inspector serves as a foil to the Birlings, exerting his authority to reveal the consequences of their actions and held them accountable for their societal roles.

Moreover, characters like Eva Smith represent the powerless, illustrating the critical implications of class disparity. The Inspector's arrival signifies a challenge to the Birlings' authority, as he disrupts their comfortable lives, revealing that moral power can outweigh social and economic dominance. Ultimately, the play critiques how power is distributed in society, advocating for collective responsibility over individualism.