GCSE English Literature (Y10/11)

Inspector - “They will be taught in _____ and _____ and ______”

“They will be taught in fire and blood and anguish”

What is “They will be taught in fire and blood and anguish” an example of?

______ _____

Dramatic Irony.

The Inspector warns that there will be violence and suffering if people do not take responsibility. This is an example of dramatic irony, because the play is set in 1912 and the characters cannot know about the world wars, but the 1945 audience does.

This makes the Birlings’ selfishness seem even more reckless and emphasises Priestley’s message that ignoring social responsibility can have devastating consequences.

What is “They will be taught in fire and blood and anguish” suggesting?

____________

Responsibility.

The inspector is saying there will be violence and suffering if people don’t start taking responsibility. This highlights one of the play’s central themes, responsibility, and shows the Birlings’ refusal to accept it.

Priestley uses this moment to criticise selfish attitudes and to encourage the audience to reflect on the importance of caring for others.

How does “They will be taught in fire and blood and anguish” link to the context of the current audience?

The quote links to the context of the audience, as the play was written in 1945, shortly after the end of WW2. The phrase “fire and blood and anguish” suggests violence and suffering, which would immediately remind the audience of the recent wars.

Priestley does this to make the warning shocking and memorable, encouraging the audience to feel guilt and fear about the consequences of ignoring social responsibility.

Shiela - “"I know __ __ _____ – and I'm ________ _____"

I know I'm to blame – and I'm desperately sorry

What does the quote "I know I'm to blame – and I'm desperately sorry" suggest?
_____

Guilt.

Shiela is saying that she knows she is the reason for Eva Smith’s death and is admitting that it was her fault. The adverb “desperately” shows that she is determined to change and develop her character by claiming responsibility and giving an urgent, heartfelt apology. The quote can link to the context of the audience as the play was released in a time where people looked back at their guilt and regrets for starting WW2 and the destruction it caused.