Inspector calls quotes

“We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other.” - Goole

Core socialist message; moral responsibility.

“If men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish.” – Inspector Goole

Foreshadows war; warning against selfish capitalism.

“The way some of these cranks talk and write now, you’d think everybody has to look after everybody else.” - Mr Birling

Shows capitalist views; dramatic irony.

“A man has to mind his own business and look after himself.” - Mr Birling

Opposite of the Inspector’s message.

“Everything’s all right now, Sheila. What about this ring?” – Gerald

Shows refusal to change; cyclical ending.

“But these girls aren’t cheap labour – they’re people.” - Sheila Birling

Shows Sheila’s development and empathy.

“I know I’m to blame – and I’m desperately sorry.” – Sheila

Accepting responsibility (contrast with parents).

“I didn’t feel about her as she felt about me.” – Gerald

Explains Eva’s vulnerability and Gerald’s guilt.

“You’re not the kind of father a chap could go to when he’s in trouble.” – Eric

Shows family tension and Mr Birling’s failure.

“The girl killed herself – and died a horrible death.” – Inspector Goole

Forces characters (and audience) to face consequences.