1945

• in early 20th century there were laws in place that meant only property owners could vote such as the second reform act 1867
• increased social mobility arose when equal franchise act 1928 was introduced - all men and women over 21 were permitted to vote, not only was this a progressive step forward for women's rights but for oppressed lower classes as they now had a political voice
• the acts to enfranchise lower classes and women showed progression towards working classes however mass prejudices still existed with there still being class segregation existent in society - priestley aims to highlight detrimental impacts of class to his 1945 audience through example of 1912 society, forcing audience to reflect on how to eliminate oppressing class divide
• link to play

  increased social mobility, particularly for women, can be seen through sheila's development of a voice throughout play - could symbolise how women had gained a political voice. although eva does not have a voice herself, priestley constructs the inspector to speak on her behalf of her and the lower classes - could symbolise how lower classes were not more represented despite the once completely rigid class system