an inspector calls

• What is one of the most prevalent themes in the play?

  Responsibility
• What role does the Inspector play in the theme of responsibility?

  He highlights that all actions have consequences
• How does the Inspector demand accountability from the characters?

  By urging them to admit personal responsibility
• What does the Inspector's message extend to beyond the characters?

  It is intended for the wider audience and society
• Who is the first character to accept responsibility for their actions?

  Sheila
• What does Sheila's acceptance of responsibility demonstrate?

  Her courage and empathy
• What does Eric initially offer to Eva that shows responsibility?

  Marriage
• How does Eric ultimately fail in his duty towards Eva?

  He fails to protect both of them
• What does the Inspector urge the characters to consider?

  Social responsibility and civic duty
• What does Priestley argue about members of society?

  They have duties towards the welfare of others
• How does the Inspector view Arthur and Sybil's positions in society?

  They have a greater duty of care towards others
• How do Arthur and Sybil interpret responsibility and duty?

  They interpret it in very different ways
• Who does Priestley present as having a greater sense of moral responsibility?

  Eva
• What pivotal moment occurs when the Inspector leaves?

  Characters reveal if they've learned his message
• Which characters grasp the Inspector's message?

  Only Eric and Sheila
• What does Priestley emphasize about personal and social responsibility?

  It extends beyond the family unit
• What does Priestley argue about the acts committed by the Birlings and Gerald?

  They may seem minor but have devastating consequences
• What economic systems does An Inspector Calls explore?

  Capitalism and socialism
• What does Priestley argue about capitalism?

  It prevents equality and social justice
• How does Priestley depict the Birlings' lifestyle?

  As comfortable and affluent due to capitalism
• What happens to Eva due to the capitalist system?

  She is exploited and marginalized
• What does the Inspector's moralistic tone serve to do?

  Condemn entrenched capitalist views
• What does Arthur prioritize over social responsibility?

  Protecting his business interests
• How does Arthur view the pay strike at his factory?

  With contempt, as it threatens profits
• How does Priestley present the Birlings and capitalism?

  In a negative light, as self-centered
• What does Priestley seek to expose through the play?

  Selfishness and the need for community care
• What generational change does Priestley explore?

  Younger characters are open to change
• How do Arthur and Sybil fail as parents?

  They ignore Sheila and Eric as adults
• How does Priestley portray Arthur, Sybil, and Gerald?

  As entrenched in upper-class superiority
• How do Eric and Sheila react to the Inspector's message?

  They embrace the opportunity for redemption
• What does the older generation prioritize over social change?

  Protecting their social positions
• How does Gerald fit between the younger and older generations?

  He shows traits of both groups
• What does Sheila challenge her parents about?

  Not learning from the Inspector
• What optimism does Priestley offer through Sheila and Eric?

  They are capable of change and empathy
• What does Priestley suggest about the younger generation's future?

  They will avoid previous errors
• What does guilt result from, according to Priestley?

  Accepting personal and social responsibility
• How do younger characters express guilt?

  They acknowledge their flaws and mistakes
• What does the Inspector require for characters to learn from his message?

  They must express their guilt
• How does Sheila express her guilt?

  It is instantaneous and sincere
• When does Eric express his guilt?

  In the last act