An Inspector Calls

Basics of an inspector calls

\
* Written by J.B. Priestley in 1945
* Set in 1912 England, just before World War I
* Reflects on the social and political climate of the time
* Explores themes of social responsibility, class, and morality
* Written as a critique of capitalist society and the idea of individualism.

Key Inspector quotes

"Public men, Mr. Birling, have responsibilities as well as privileges." - This quote highlights the importance of social responsibility and the idea that those in power have a duty to use their influence for the greater good.

"We don't live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other." - This quote emphasizes the interconnectedness of society and the need for individuals to be accountable for their actions and their impact on others.

"If men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish." - This quote suggests that if people do not learn from their mistakes and take responsibility for their actions, they will face the consequences in a drastic and painful way.

Gerald quotes

“All right I knew her let’s leave it at that” -hides truth and is evasive

“You couldn’t have done anything else” -agrees with Mr Birling of capitalist views

He represents the upper class capitalists as the Crofts are even more wealthy than the Birlings

He contributed to Eva’s death as he left her heartbroken and homeless

“Everything is all right now Sheila” - believes she is emotional and needs support as she’s a woman and also shows he hasn’t learned a lesson

Mr Birling

"Lower costs and higher prices" - Mr Birling
"Community and all that nonsense" - Mr Birling
"Every man for himself" - Mr Birling
"A man has to make his own way" - Mr Birling
"I can't accept any responsibility" - Mr Birling

Mrs Birling

"Girls of that class" - Mrs Birling
"I accept no blame for it at all" - Mrs Birling
"I'm sorry, but I think she had only herself to blame" - Mrs Birling
"As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!" - Mrs Birling
"I don't suppose for a moment that we can understand why the girl committed suicide" - Mrs Birling

Sheila Birling

"Sheila Birling: "But these girls aren't cheap labour - they're people."
"Sheila Birling: "I'll never, never do it again to anybody."
"Sheila Birling: "I know I'm to blame - and I'm desperately sorry."
"Sheila Birling: "I felt rotten about it at the time and now I feel a lot worse."
"Sheila Birling: "I'm sorry Daddy actually I was listening."

Eric Birling

"Look, I’d give thousands – yes, thousands –"
"It’s what happened to the girl and what we all did to her that matters."
"I didn’t want her to go in that state, but what could I do?"
"I’m not likely to forget."
"I wasn’t in love with her or anything – but I liked her – she was pretty and a good sport."