An Inspector Calls - Themes

• Who is the author of "An Inspector Calls"?

  J.B. Priestley
• What is the main theme of moral responsibility in "An Inspector Calls"?

  It exposes the moral responsibility of characters
• How does Inspector Goole reveal the characters' moral culpability?

  By exposing their hidden guilt about Eva Smith
• What does Priestley suggest about social injustice in 1912?

  It was common and largely unchallenged
• What political ideology does Priestley align with in the play?

  Socialism
• How does Arthur Birling view social responsibility?

  He lacks any sense of responsibility for others
• What does Birling's quote about "community and all that nonsense" reveal?

  His individualistic and capitalist mindset
• What role does Inspector Goole play in the narrative?

  He challenges those in power with questions
• How does the inspector's arrival affect the Birling family?

  It shocks them and challenges their views
• What does Priestley suggest about capitalism and imperialism?

  They are immoral and cause suffering
• What does the character Sheila Birling represent in the play?

  The potential for change in the younger generation
• How do Eric and Sheila's responses to the inspector differ from their parents'?

  They show willingness to learn from mistakes
• What does Sheila's admission of blame signify?

  Her growth and awareness of social issues
• How does Mrs. Birling's attitude contrast with Sheila's?

  She refuses to accept any blame at all
• What does Gerald Croft's character represent?

  A middle ground between youth and age
• How does Priestley portray the class system in the play?

  As designed to exploit the majority
• What does Inspector Goole's response to Birling's influence reveal?

  He is not intimidated by the privileged class
• What does Eva Smith symbolize in the play?

  The plight of the working class
• How does Mrs. Birling view working-class women?

  As less moral and deserving of disdain
• What does Birling's quote about "coming down hard on these people" imply?

  His contempt for the working class
• What does the inspector's final speech suggest about social unrest?

  It implies potential for revolution
• How do Sheila and Mrs. Birling represent different attitudes towards gender?

  Sheila shows growth, while Mrs. Birling upholds patriarchy
• What societal change does Priestley highlight regarding women's roles?

  Women proved their equality in the workplace
• How do the male characters view Eva Smith?

  As a sexual object rather than a person
• What does the growing suffragette movement signify in the context of the play?

  Changing attitudes towards women's rights
• What are the four main themes of "An Inspector Calls"?

  • Moral Responsibility
  • Age
  • Class
  • Gender
• How does Priestley use the character of Inspector Goole?

  • Challenges the wealthy characters
  • Represents Priestley's voice
  • Exposes moral failings of society
• What is the significance of the setting in 1912 and 1945?

  • 1912: Pre-World War I attitudes
  • 1945: Post-World War II reflections
  • Highlights social changes and injustices
• How does the play reflect Priestley's views on capitalism and socialism?

  • Critiques capitalism for moral failings
  • Advocates for socialist responsibility
  • Highlights class exploitation and injustice
• What does the character development of Sheila Birling signify?

  • Represents hope for social change
  • Shows ability to learn from mistakes
  • Contrasts with older generation's stubbornness
• How does the play address gender roles and attitudes?

  • Contrasts 20th-century and Victorian views
  • Highlights women's contributions during wars
  • Critiques patriarchal perspectives of male characters