An Inspector Calls - Key theme (Gender)

A key theme needed to revise for An Inspector Calls including their purpose/relevance and quotes!

Why is gender a core theme within the play?

Gender roles in 1912 were strictly defined. Upper-class women like Sheila were expected to be decorative, obedient, and ignorant of “unpleasant” matters. Working-class women like Eva had few options when they lost respectable work leading to men being able to take advantage of her without any consequences or repercussions.

Priestley uses Sheila's transformation to show hope. She begins as a stereotypical upper-class girl but develops into the play's moral conscience rejecting expectations and stereotypical suppression promoting this socialist ideology. Written in 1945 when women had worked in factories during wartime, the play suggests women deserve equality.

“She was young and pretty and warm-hearted - and intensely grateful” - Gerald

( In Act 2 Gerald describes his relationship with Daisy Renton (Eva Smith).

Language Techniques: Listing, Sentimentality, Self-justification

Relating themes: Class, Exploitation, Gender

The listing romanticises his exploitation. "Grateful" reveals the power imbalance - she depended on him entirely. Gerald presents himself as her hero while actually taking advantage of her vulnerability and dependency. His romantic language masks the reality of class-based exploitation.

Gerald genuinely cared for Eva but still exploited her. Shows how even "kindness" can be exploitative.

“I became at once the most important person in her life” - Gerald

( In Act 2 Gerald describes his relationship with Daisy Renton (Eva Smith).

Language Techniques: Self-importance, Power dynamics

Relating themes: Power, Class, Gender

Gerald's self-importance reveals the power dynamic. Eva's vulnerability made him "important" - he enjoyed the control. His pride in being essential to her shows he benefited from her desperation. The relationship was inherently unequal.

Gerald's "rescue" still exploited Eva's vulnerability. Even well-intentioned relationships can be exploitative.

TO BE CONTINUED