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An Inspector Calls : Themes - Coggle Diagram
An Inspector Calls : Themes
THEMES
Social Responsibility
“We are members of one body.”
Inspector represents Priestley’s socialist message: collective responsibility.
The Birlings embody capitalist selfishness.
Class & Inequality
The Birlings look down on Eva Smith (“A girl of that class”).
Priestley exposes class prejudice and hypocrisy.
Gender
Women seen as delicate or inferior (“Young women ought to be protected”).
Eva is mistreated by men; Sheila grows independent and assertive.
Generational Divide
Sheila and Eric change; Mr and Mrs Birling refuse to.
Younger generation = hope for future society.
CHARATERS
Inspector Goole
Characteristics
: Prophetic, Influential, Commanding, Imposing, Emotive
" Public men, Mr Birling. Have responsibilities as well as privileges "
( Act 2 )
means that with power and high social status come duties and obligations to care for others, particularly the less fortunate.
"it will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish "
( Act 3 )
It society fails to learn it's lesson, it will learn the lesson of social responsibility, they will learn it through immense suffering, likely talking about the repeat of World Wars
"I don't Play Golf"
( Act 1)
rejects upper class influence and threats, and rejection of capitalism. Reveals the Inspector's non-bias towards classes.
Role
: Representing socialist society, mouthpiece for J.P Priestley
Sheila Birling
Characteristics
: Materialistic, Immature, Capable of change
" Oh - why did this have to happen "
( Act 2 )
shows a transformation from a shallow, materialistic young woman into one who is remorseful, insightful, and eager for social change, though she is often at odds with her family's refusal to accept responsibility.
"It frightens me the way you talk "
( Act 3 )
signifies her rejection of their continued denial and social indifference
It shows a significant shift in her character, as she recognizes the "cruelty" of their attitudes and fears that their refusal to accept responsibility means they could cause more suffering in the future
This quote also highlights the generational divide, with Sheila representing a more socially conscious and reformed generation that cannot accept the older generation's unrepentant views.
" Look mummy isn't it a beauty ? "
( Act 1)
shows Sheila's initial childlike naivety, materialistic focus on the engagement ring, and dependence on parental approval.
The use of the term "mummy" infantilizes her, while her excitement over the ring's appearance, not its deeper meaning, highlights her superficiality and sheltered upbringing.
Role
: Maturity grows during the play, the progressive values of the younger generation.
Arthur Birling
Characteristics
: Stubborn, Selfish, Money - Driven, Lacking Empathy.
"I can't accept any responsibility "
( Act 1 )
It represents their denial of social responsibility, their refusal to change, and their selfish, upper-class attitudes that disregard the consequences of their actions on the lower classes
" look after himself and his own "
( Act 1 )
It highlights his belief that individuals are solely responsible for their own success and well-being, with little regard for social responsibility or the consequences his actions have on others, especially the working class.
" Unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable "
( Act 1 )
Dramatic Irony - Mr birling's overconfidence, the audience knew the titanic sank in 1912 and prefiguring the eventual "sinking" of his ideology and character under the Inspector's questioning.
Role
: Representing capitalist society, aspires to climb the English class system
Gerald Croft
Characteristics
: Wealthy, Rejects responsibility