An Inspector Calls: Themes & Questions

🎓 Course Title: An Inspector Calls: Themes & Questions

📚 Course Headline: Working our way through one section of the GCSE exam

Introduction: Dive into the world of J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" 🕵️‍♂️

In the midst of the tumultuous 1930s, Priestley crafted a play that not only captivates with its story but also serves as a social commentary. Priestley's concerns about the consequences of social inequality during this time were so profound that they led to the creation of the Common Wealth Party, which later merged with the Labour Party in 1945. This fusion was instrumental in laying the groundwork for the Welfare State, a cornerstone of post-war Britain.

Priestley's own experiences, particularly his service in World War I, shaped his perspective and were reflected in his powerful writing. He was an advocate for social responsibility and a critic of selfish desires, which he poignantly presents through the characters in the play—especially contrasting the self-centered Mr Birling with the socially conscious Inspector Goole.

A Range of Practice Questions:

• What is the central theme of "An Inspector Calls," and how does it relate to Priestley's social and political ideals? 🤔
• Discuss the role of each character in bringing out Priestley's message of social responsibility. 🗣️
• Analyze the use of dramatic devices such as irony, foreshadowing, and symbolism throughout the play. ⚙️

Character Analyses with Questions:

Overview:

The characters in "An Inspector Calls" each represent different aspects of society and its attitudes towards social issues. Their interactions and individual perspectives provide a platform for Priestley to explore themes of class, gender, and social responsibility.

• Mr Birling - Attitudes towards Women: How does Mr Birling's attitude towards women reflect the societal norms of the era? 👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨
• Eva Smith (Daisy Renton) - Suicide: What does Eva's death reveal about the social pressures on young women in 1930s Britain? ✍️
• Sheila Birling - Female Roles: How does Sheila's character challenge traditional female roles within the play? 🏠
• Mrs Birling - The Role of Charity: In what ways does Mrs Birling's perspective on charity expose the flaws in individualistic solutions to societal issues? 💓
• Gerald Croft - Public lives and private lives: How does Gerald navigate the intersection of his public and private life, and what does this suggest about class and personal ethics? 🤝
• Eric Birling - Emotional Weakness: What role does emotional weakness play in Eric's character, and how does it affect his understanding of social responsibility? 🤷‍♂️

Themes:

• Class: Priestley examines the rigid class system and its impact on individuals. 🏘️
• Social Responsibility: The play's central message is that every individual has a responsibility to society as a whole. ✊
• Gender: Priestley explores gender roles and expectations, particularly through the experiences of women. 👩‍💼
• Conflict: The tension between self-interest and social duty is a driving force in the play. 🚫

Conclusion:

"An Inspector Calls" remains a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences today. It serves as a powerful reminder of Priestley's enduring message about the importance of social responsibility, the need for equality, and the role of individuals in shaping society. 🌟

Join us on this journey through the play, as we uncover its layers, understand its themes, and discuss its implications. Whether you're preparing for your GCSE exam or simply a lover of literature, this course will provide you with the insights and analytical tools to appreciate Priestley's masterpiece fully. 📚✨