Final answer:
Mr. Birling and Sheila from 'An Inspector Calls' exhibit contrasting levels of responsibility; Mr. Birling is reluctant to accept any, while Sheila evolves and acknowledges her faults.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characters of Mr. Birling and Sheila in the play 'An Inspector Calls' demonstrate contrasting levels of responsibility for their actions. Mr. Birling represents a prideful and stubborn individual, reluctant to admit his failures and responsibilities.
He is focused on his business and social status, showing little regard for the consequences of his actions on others. On the other hand, Sheila starts as a naive young woman but evolves throughout the play, becoming more self-aware and remorseful. She acknowledges her role in the misfortunes of others, particularly Eva Smith, and demonstrates a willingness to change and take responsibility.
While Mr. Birling continuously justifies his actions and shows little change, Sheila undergoes significant character development, displaying a sense of moral growth and acceptance of responsibility. This variance in character between Mr. Birling and Sheila reflects the broader themes of social responsibility and the generational divide in attitudes towards ethical accountability within the play.