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Understanding gender and class through Mrs Birling in 'An Inspector Calls'

Lesson 6 / 7

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I can analyse how Priestley uses Mrs Birling’s character to explore the impact of gender and class expectations.

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Arguably, Priestley uses the characters to critique the flaws of gender and class structures in Edwardian societies. Mrs Birling embodies traditional Edwardian norms of gender and class, reinforcing societal hierarchies. It could be suggested that Mrs Birling’s response reflects her internalised patriarchal views. Mrs Birling's treatment of Eva Smith could show the prejudice of the upper class against working-class women. Single paragraph outlines are a useful planning tool for analytical writing.

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