Age

• What theme is being discussed in JB Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls"?


  The theme of age is being discussed.
• How does the theme of age influence characters in the play?


  It influences their views, behaviors, and decisions.
• Who are the older characters in "An Inspector Calls"?

  Mr. and Mrs. Birling.
• Who are the younger characters in "An Inspector Calls"?

  Eric and Sheila.
• What does the theme of age examine in the play?


  It examines how different groups of characters behave based on their ages.
• What might an exam question ask regarding the theme of age?


  It might ask about age difference or the generation gap.
• How is Gerald described in the play?


  He is described as an attractive man about 30.
• How does Gerald's age position him between the two groups?


  He is older than Eric and Sheila but younger than Mr. and Mrs. Birling.
• In what ways does Gerald's behavior complicate the theme of age?

  He shares capitalist tendencies with the older generation but shows compassion like the younger generation.
• How does Gerald's social class influence his views?


  His upper-class status may reinforce his capitalist views and diminish his compassion.
• How do the younger generation treat the older generation in the play?

  • They treat them with respect.
  • Sheila uses "mummy" indicating a docile attitude.
  • Eric uses "father" showing formality.
• How does the older generation treat the younger generation?

  • They often look down on them.
  • Mrs. Birling refers to Sheila as "this child."
  • Mr. Birling mocks the younger generation.
• What does Mrs. Birling's dialogue imply about her view of her daughter?


  It implies that she does not take her daughter seriously.
• How does Mr. Birling's comment about the younger generation reflect his attitude?


  It reflects a mocking and dismissive attitude towards them.
• What does Eric's dialogue reveal about his relationship with Mr. Birling?


  It reveals resentment and a lack of trust in his father.
• How do the younger and older generations differ in their feelings of guilt?

  Younger Generation:

  • Sheila feels guilty for her role in Eva's death.
  • Eric admits his involvement openly.

  
  

  Older Generation:

  • Mr. Birling and Mrs. Birling deny responsibility.
  • Mrs. Birling claims she is ashamed of nothing.
• What does Sheila's reaction to the photograph indicate about her feelings?


  It indicates feelings of guilt and regret.
• How does the older generation's stance on guilt differ from the younger generation's?


  The older generation is cold and rejects guilt, while the younger generation feels remorse.
• What does Mr. Birling offer at the end of the play?


  He offers to give thousands to undo the damage done.
• What does Mr. Birling's offer at the end signify about his character development?


  It signifies a moment of guilt and a desire to make amends.
• Who in the older generation does Mrs. Birling represent in terms of guilt?


  Mrs. Birling represents the older generation's stance on guilt.
• What does Mrs. Birling mean when she says, "I did nothing I'm ashamed of"?


  She indicates that she rejects all forms of guilt and responsibility.
• How is the older generation characterized in the text?


  They are presented as cold, uncaring, and selfish.
• What does Mr. Birling's statement about offering "thousands" signify?


  It signifies a moment of guilt and an attempt to undo past damage.
• Why is Mr. Birling's offer of money considered "ridiculously" large for 1912?


  It reflects the extent of his guilt.
• What does the text suggest about the older generation's acceptance of guilt?


  They are slow to accept guilt and responsibility.
• How does Mr. Birling view his guilt according to the text?


  He views it as an economic or financial issue rather than emotional guilt.
• How do the younger and older generations differ in their response to guilt?


  • Younger generation: More ready to embrace and accept guilt.
  • Older generation: Slow to accept guilt and often reject responsibility.
• What does Eric's statement about his actions reveal about his character?


  It shows that he has accepted responsibility for his part in Eva's suicide.
• What does Eric's repetition of "I did" imply?


  It implies that he acknowledges his actions and their consequences.
• How does Mr. Birling's attitude change after the inspector leaves?


  He discards any learning and distances himself from responsibility.
• What does Sheila's claim about the inspector's identity suggest?


  It suggests she genuinely wants to right her wrongs, not out of fear.
• How does Mrs. Birling's response to the inspector differ from Sheila's?


  Mrs. Birling cares about her reputation, while Sheila focuses on accountability.
• What are the implications of the inspector's final speech about learning lessons?

  • The lesson is about social responsibility.
  • Sheila and Eric appear to learn this lesson.
  • The historical context suggests a failure to learn, leading to future conflicts.
• What does the inspector's warning about "fire and blood and anguish" imply?


  It implies dire consequences for failing to learn social responsibility.
• What are JB Priestley's intentions regarding the theme of age in "An Inspector Calls"?


  • Condemn the older generation's mistakes.
  • Highlight the need for social responsibility.
  • Praise the younger generation's potential for change.
• How does Priestley view the older generation's role in historical events?


  He believes they were largely responsible for the lack of support for the working class and the First World War.
• What message does Priestley convey through the character of Mr. Birling?


  He broadcasts a warning against following the selfish ways of the older generation.
• How can students deepen their analysis of the generational differences in the play?


  • Consider how each generation responds to the inspector.
  • Analyze their cooperation or resistance during the investigation.
  • Reflect on their attitudes towards guilt and responsibility.
• What advice does the speaker give to students regarding studying?


  To take frequent short breaks while revising.