Historical Context

• When was An Inspector Calls written?

  1945
• When was An Inspector Calls first performed?

  1946
• In what year is An Inspector Calls set?

  1912
• Why is understanding the historical context of the play important?

  It helps interpret its themes and messages
• What social issue does Priestley highlight through the historical setting?

  Social inequalities and social responsibility
• What are the key points about the historical context of An Inspector Calls?

  • Set in 1912, Edwardian Era
  • Stark class contrasts
  • No welfare state, vast wealth gap
  • Limited women's rights
  • Titanic symbolizes upper-class hubris
  • Written post-World War II
  • Rise of socialism and Labour Party
  • Critique of capitalism vs. socialism
  • Social change and class system breakdown
• What does the play reflect about social inequality in 1912?

  It questions the morality of the wealthy
• What were women's roles in society in 1912?

  Limited to marriage and household duties
• When did women gain the right to vote?

  1918 for women over 30, 1928 for all
• How does Priestley portray the vulnerability of women like Eva Smith?

  Dependent on powerful men's decisions
• What does the sinking of the Titanic symbolize in the play?

  Hubris and complacency of the upper classes
• How does Arthur Birling's assertion about the Titanic serve as dramatic irony?

  It reflects the upper class's misplaced confidence
• What was the impact of World War II on British society?

  Increased awareness of social inequalities
• Who won the general election in 1945?

  The Labour Party
• What did the Labour government aim to establish after the war?

  A welfare state and NHS
• How does Priestley critique capitalism in the play?

  Through Arthur Birling's selfish beliefs
• What does the Inspector represent in the play?

  The voice of socialism and collective responsibility
• What social change occurred in Britain after World War II?

  Class system began to break down
• How does Priestley contrast the older and younger generations in the play?

  Older characters resist change, younger embrace it
• What do Arthur and Sybil Birling represent in the play?

  Selfishness and complacency of the upper class
• How do Sheila and Eric Birling differ from their parents?

  They show remorse and accept responsibility
• Why is An Inspector Calls still relevant today?

  Its themes of social responsibility are timeless
• What does Priestley encourage audiences to reflect on through the play?

  Whether they contribute to social betterment
• What are the main themes of An Inspector Calls?

  • Social responsibility
  • Inequality
  • Moral accountability
  • Class struggle
  • The generation gap
• What is the significance of the historical context in An Inspector Calls?

  • Reflects Edwardian class structures
  • Highlights social inequalities
  • Critiques capitalism and promotes socialism
  • Encourages social change and responsibility