writers message

• What does the term 'methods' refer to in writing?

  Anything the writer does on purpose
• How can mentioning the writer's name help in analysis?

  It reminds you of the conscious construct
• What are the dramatic methods used in An Inspector Calls?

  • Dramatic structure
  • Stagecraft
  • Dramatic speech and language
• Why should one notice deliberate choices made by Priestley?

  To understand how he communicates ideas
• What is the significance of Arthur Birling and Gerald speaking first?

  It demonstrates the patriarchal society
• What is the three-act structure in An Inspector Calls?

  • Follows conventions of the detective genre
  • Subverts some conventions
  • Each act presents gradual revelations
• What does the Inspector's speech do in the play?

  Repeats the moral message
• What are the Three Unities used by Priestley?

  Place, Time, Action
• How does the cyclical structure of the play affect its themes?

  Indicates characters may repeat mistakes
• What is the effect of ending the play on a cliff-hanger?

  Creates suspense and surprise
• What elements are included in stagecraft according to the text?

  • Stage directions
  • Lighting
  • Opening and ending of scenes
  • Dramatic irony and pace
• Where do the events of the play take place?

  In the Birlings' dining room
• What does the single location signify about the Birlings?

  Relative isolation from lower classes
• How does the doorbell sound effect function in the play?

  Interrupts Arthur's speech, foreshadowing conflict
• What does the lighting change from 'pink' to suggest?

  Characters will be scrutinized by the Inspector
• How does Priestley maintain tension and pace in the play?

  By using cliff-hangers and dramatic entrances
• What is the significance of Sheila's dramatic exit?

  Shows her distress upon seeing the photograph
• How is Eric characterized in Acts I and II?

  As a peripheral character for much of the acts
• What methods does Priestley use to create tension?

  Silence, pauses, and gradual revelations
• What role do photographs play in the play?

  They reveal character involvement gradually
• How does the mood change from the first half to the second half of the act?

  • First half: Prosperity and smugness of Birlings
  • Second half: Observing their destruction
• What aspects of speech and language should be considered in the play?

  • Use of dialogue
  • Monologues
  • Character-specific language
• What is the role of dramatic irony in Act I?

  To portray Arthur Birling as foolish
• How does Arthur Birling's speech reflect his character?

  Shows confidence in his judgement and materialism
• What does Priestley achieve by using dramatic irony with Arthur's predictions?

  Ridicules Arthur's character and confidence
• What is the Inspector's role in the play?

  He controls events and dialogue
• How does the Inspector's speech contribute to the plot?

  Filled with questions and imperatives
• What themes does the Inspector's dialogue interweave?

  Social responsibility and collective guilt
• What does foreshadowing hint at in the play?

  Events that will occur later
• How does Sheila's comment about Gerald foreshadow his actions?

  Hints at Gerald's affair with Eva/Daisy
• What does Birling's remark about scandal suggest?

  A potential scandal is about to be revealed