English: An Inspector Calls

What is the main message about social responsibility?

Everyone is responsible for others in society; actions affect others.

“We are members of one body.” (Inspector)

Metaphor → society is interconnected; Priestley promotes collective responsibility.

“If men will not learn that lesson… fire and blood and anguish.”

Violent imagery → consequences; warning of war if society doesn’t change.

“A man has to mind his own business…” (Mr Birling)

Selfish capitalist view; repetition of “himself” shows individualism.

“I know I’m to blame…” (Sheila)

Accepts responsibility; younger generation = hope.

“The fact remains that I did what I did.” (Eric)

Direct acceptance; moral growth.

“I accept no blame for it at all.” (Mrs Birling)

Absolute refusal; upper-class arrogance.

How does Priestley show generational divide?

Young accept responsibility; old reject it.

Context for responsibility

1912 vs 1945; Priestley pushes post-war social change.

What is Priestley’s message about class?

Class system is unfair and exploitative.

Who does Eva Smith represent?

Working class; “Smith” = ordinary, universal.

“They’d soon be asking for the earth.” (Birling)

Dismissive; sees workers as greedy.

“Public men… responsibilities as well as privileges.” (Inspector)

Power comes with duty; criticises elites.

“These girls aren’t cheap labour…” (Sheila)

Humanises workers; challenges class views.

“Girls of that class.” (Mrs Birling)

Dehumanising; class prejudice.

“Why shouldn’t they try for higher wages?” (Eric)

Challenges inequality; supports fairness.

How is power shown in class?

Upper class control wealth, jobs, and status.

Context for class

Strict hierarchy in 1912; 1945 audience more open to equality.

What is Priestley’s message about gender?

Women are treated unfairly and controlled by men.

How is Eva Smith presented in terms of gender?

Exploited by men; vulnerable.

“I hate those hard-eyed… women.” (Gerald)

Objectifying language; double standards.

“You mustn’t build up a wall…” (Sheila)

“Wall” metaphor; breaking divisions.

What does Mrs Birling represent?

Traditional woman reinforcing patriarchy.

“I was in that state…” (Eric)

Euphemism; avoids responsibility for exploitation.

Gender expectations in 1912

Women passive, dependent, obedient.

How does Sheila challenge gender norms?

Questions authority; rejects engagement.

How is marriage presented?

Transactional, not based on love.

How are the themes connected?

Responsibility links to class and gender; powerful exploit weaker groups.

Priestley’s overall message

Society must become fairer, equal, and responsible.

Exam technique

Quote + language + theme + context + intention.