Lecture Notes: Analysis of Mr. Burling in "An Inspector Calls"

Introduction

• J.B. Priestley emphasizes in his book "Theater Outlook" that a theatrical production should reflect life, where every detail is significant.
• This video focuses on analyzing the character of Mr. Burling, starting with the use of port in the play.

The Significance of Port

• Mr. Burling's Dialogue: "Giving us the port, Edna? That's right. You ought to like this port, Gerald."
  • Port as a Status Symbol: Port is expensive and associated with wealth, indicating Mr. Burling's desire to show off.
  • Name-Dropping: Mr. Burling mentions Finchley to impress Gerald, his future son-in-law.
  • Social Dynamics: Mr. Burling, though middle-class, tries to align with the upper class, speaking to Gerald, his social superior.

Mr. Burling's Background and Social Class

• Transformation: Mr. Burling moved from working class to middle class through his business.
• Social Awareness: Occasionally corrected by Mrs. Burling on social conduct due to his background.

Mr. Burling's Speech

• Focus: Economic future and national issues, not personal relationships.
• Self-Perception: Describes himself as a hard-headed businessman.
  • Repetition: Emphasizes his identity tied to work and money.
• Lack of Empathy: More concerned with wealth accumulation than people, as seen in his treatment of workers.

Representation of Capitalism

• Ideology: Mr. Burling embodies capitalist ideals where profit is prioritized over people.
• Labor Cost: Emphasizes keeping costs low for profit, impacting Eva Smith's fate.

Dramatic Irony

• Incorrect Assertions: Mr. Burling's claims about war, economy, and Titanic.
• Audience Awareness: Audience knows his predictions are wrong, undermining his credibility.
• Impact on View: His views on business and employees are also seen as flawed.

Character Development

• Static Character: Begins and ends the play with the same mindset.
• Focus on Money: Concerned about lost money due to Eric's actions, not personal or family issues.

Generational Contrast

• Older vs. Younger: Mr. Burling and wife avoid responsibility for Eva Smith.
• Youthful Change: Younger generation is more open to socialism and change.

Conclusion

• Priestley's Critique: Criticizes older generation's inflexibility and capitalist ideology.
• Social Responsibility: Emphasized through Inspector's lessons and younger characters’ openness.

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• Additional Resources: Referenced in the video, "Mr. Bru's Guide to An Inspector Calls."