45 minutes; 1 question; 40 marks; 20% of GCSE
Respond concisely…
The play begins with the setting described as the dining room of the Birlings’ house in Brumley, an industrial city in the north Midlands.
The house is depicted as having “good solid furniture,” but the overall effect is not cosy or homelike, suggesting a focus on status and display rather than comfort.
Arthur Birling, Sybil Birling, Sheila Birling, Eric Birling, and Gerald Croft are seated at the table, which is laid out for dessert.
The lighting is initially described as “pink and intimate,” indicating a warm and celebratory atmosphere.
The family has just finished a good dinner and is celebrating the engagement of Sheila Birling to Gerald Croft.
Arthur Birling is jovial and self-satisfied, while Sybil Birling is described as a cold woman who is socially superior to her husband.
Sheila Birling is in her early twenties, described as “very pleased with life and rather excited.”
Eric Birling is uneasy and drinks more than is socially appropriate, hinting at underlying tension.
Edna, the maid, is present in the background, serving and responding to requests from the family.
At the moment, the family is content, pleased with themselves, and celebrating a special occasion.