key knowledge on play

• What does the quote about the Titanic illustrate in the play?

  Dramatic irony about its sinking
• When was "An Inspector Calls" first staged?

  1945
• What incorrect predictions does Mr. Birling make?

  War won't break out and strikes are unlikely
• How does Priestley use Mr. Birling's statements about society?

  To undermine faith in his opinions
• What does Mr. Birling believe about people's obligations?

  Only to their family, not to others
• What term does Mr. Birling use for people with unusual ideas?

  Cranks
• How does Mr. Birling view his workers?

  As a collective group asking for more
• Who committed suicide in the play?

  Eva Smith
• Why did Sheila Birling complain about Eva Smith?

  Sheila thought Eva was pretty
• What does Sheila's initial reaction to Eva's situation reveal?

  Her lack of empathy and privilege
• How does Mrs. Birling view Eva Smith's suicide?

  As linked to Eva's lower-class origins
• What does Gerald say about the women he dislikes?

  They are hard and dough-faced
• What does Gerald's relationship with Eva suggest about the upper classes?

  They exploit the working class for pleasure
• How does Gerald justify his actions towards Eva?

  By claiming he didn't intend to use her
• What does Mrs. Birling's prejudice reveal about her character?

  She judges based on social class
• Who does Mrs. Birling blame for Eva's pregnancy?

  A working-class man
• What lesson does the inspector impart at the end of the play?

  We are all interconnected and responsible
• What does the inspector's parting speech emphasize?

  Millions of Eva Smiths still exist
• How do the Birling family members react after the inspector leaves?

  They make excuses for their actions
• What does Mr. Birling call the inspector?

  A socialist or some sort of crank
• What question does Priestley want the audience to consider?

  Do we have a responsibility for others?
• What are the main themes presented in "An Inspector Calls"?

  • Social responsibility
  • Class prejudice
  • Interconnectedness of society
  • Hypocrisy of the upper class
• How does the character of Mr. Birling represent capitalist views?

  • Dismisses social responsibility
  • Believes in individualism over community
  • Makes false predictions about society
• How does Sheila's character evolve throughout the play?

  • Initially lacks empathy
  • Begins to take responsibility
  • Challenges her family's views
• What role does the inspector play in the narrative?

  • Catalyst for change
  • Represents moral conscience
  • Challenges the Birling family's beliefs