Plot storyboard

What is the setting of An Inspector Calls?

The dining room of the Birling family in Brumley, England, set in 1912.

Who is the young girl that commits suicide in An Inspector Calls?

Eva Smith.

What does the Inspector inform the Birlings about Eva Smith's death?

She committed suicide by swallowing disinfectant.

Why was Eva Smith dismissed from Arthur Birling's factory?

She participated in a strike for higher wages.

What was Sheila's role in Eva's dismissal from her next job?

She made a complaint about Eva's conduct, leading to her dismissal.

What name does Eva Smith use while involved with Gerald Croft?

Daisy Renton.

How does Gerald Croft respond to the Inspector's questioning about Eva?

He confesses to having an affair with her.

What does Sybil Birling refuse to do for Eva when she applies for aid?

She refuses to help her because Eva is pregnant.

Who is revealed to be the father of Eva's child?

Eric Birling.

What does Eric admit to doing to help Eva?

He stole money from his father's firm.

How does the Inspector address the Birlings and Gerald about their actions toward Eva?

He rebukes them for their involvement and the consequences of their actions.

What happens after the Inspector leaves the Birling household?

Gerald, Arthur, and Sybil believe the Inspector was a fraud and rejoice in avoiding scandal.

What shocking news interrupts Gerald’s attempt to return the engagement ring to Sheila?

A police inspector is on his way to investigate Eva's death.

What key theme does An Inspector Calls explore through the characters' actions?

Social responsibility.

In what year is An Inspector Calls set?

1912.

Who is the author of An Inspector Calls?

J.B. Priestley.

What type of play is An Inspector Calls?

A three-act play.

What is Arthur Birling's attitude towards the Inspector when he first arrives?

Dismissive.

What does Sheila do at the end of Act 2 regarding her engagement to Gerald?

She returns the engagement ring.

What does Sybil Birling do when she discovers the true nature of Eric's involvement with Eva?

She chastises him for his poor behavior.

What position does Sybil Birling hold in her charitable organization?

Chair.

What does the Inspector's dramatic speech at the end of Act 3 emphasize?

The consequences of one's actions and responsibility to others.

How does the play's ending depict the theme of denial?

By showing Arthur and Sybil's relief at avoiding scandal while Sheila and Eric are guilt-ridden.

What does the Inspector symbolize in the play?

Moral authority and social conscience.

What do Sheila and Eric argue about concerning their parents' attitudes?

They criticize their parents' lack of accountability for their actions.

What is the social class of the Birling family?

Upper-middle class.

How does the play structure impact the characters' development?

The three acts allow for gradual revelation and escalation of tension.

What event prompts the arrival of the Inspector?

The suicide of Eva Smith.

How does Gerald's attitude change by the end of the play?

He shifts from guilt to relief at escaping blame.

Which character is most affected by the Inspector's inquiries?

Sheila Birling.

What does the telephone call at the end of the play signify?

The return of accountability and consequences.

What major societal issue does the play critique?

Capitalism and social injustice.

How do the Birlings react upon learning the Inspector may not be real?

They celebrate their escape from scandal.

What does Sheila's character arc represent throughout the play?

Growing awareness and social conscience.

What does Eric's confession reveal about his character?

His vulnerability and regret.

What type of narrative device is prominently used in An Inspector Calls?

Dramatic irony.

What does the Inspector's investigation reveal about the Birlings?

Their interconnected roles in Eva's demise.

Which character is portrayed as the moral center of the play?

Inspector Goole.

How does the play end?

With a police inspector on his way to investigate a new suicide.

What role does social class play in the characters' attitudes towards Eva?

It influences their sense of superiority and lack of empathy.

How does the Inspector's method of questioning affect the characters?

It forces them to confront their guilt and complicity.

What theme is depicted through the character of Gerald Croft?

Hypocrisy and the facade of social respectability.

How does the setting contribute to the play's tension?

The intimate setting contrasts with the unfolding drama, emphasizing personal responsibility.

What does Sybil Birling's reaction to Eva's situation suggest about her character?

Her lack of compassion and understanding for the lower class.

What key idea does the phrase 'we are all responsible for each other' convey in the play?

The importance of social responsibility.

What lesson does the Inspector's presence aim to teach the Birling family?

The importance of acknowledging one's social responsibility.

What type of conflict is central to the story?

The moral conflict between individual desires and social responsibility.

How does the final twist of the play impact the audience's understanding?

It leaves the audience questioning the nature of accountability and morality.