Responsibility

• How does the Inspector represent responsibility in the play?

  He encourages characters to take responsibility
• What does the generational divide reveal about responsibility in the play?

  Young characters accept it, older ones refuse
• How does the structure of the play emphasize responsibility?

  Characters are interrogated individually
• What is the Inspector's final message about responsibility?

  • "We don’t live alone."
  • "We are members of one body."
  • "We are responsible for each other."
• What does the metaphor "one body" suggest in the Inspector's message?

  It suggests unity and collective responsibility
• What does Mr. Birling's quote reveal about his views on responsibility?

  He believes in selfish capitalism
• How does Mr. Birling's attitude reflect Priestley's criticism?

  It highlights the selfish capitalist mindset
• What does Sheila's quote about blame indicate about her character development?

  She takes responsibility and feels remorse
• What does Sheila's acceptance of blame suggest about the younger generation?

  It reflects hope for their change
• How does Mrs. Birling's quote illustrate her character?

  She refuses to acknowledge her responsibility
• What does Eric's statement about collective responsibility reveal?

  He understands everyone's role in the tragedy
• How does Priestley use responsibility in the play?

  • To criticize capitalism
  • To show a generational divide
  • To make the audience reflect on moral responsibility
• What does Priestley emphasize about responsibility?

  It should be taken seriously by everyone
• What lesson does the Inspector teach regarding responsibility?

  Both personal and collective responsibility are important
• How does Mr. Birling view socialism in his quote about bees in a hive?

  He mocks it, showing disdain for shared responsibility
• What does the simile “like bees in a hive” imply about the working class?

  It dehumanizes them and rejects shared responsibility
• What does the Inspector remind Birling about public men?

  They have responsibilities as well as privileges
• What does Sheila express when she says, “I know I’m to blame – and I’m desperately sorry”?

  She shows genuine regret and willingness to change
• What does the phrase “fire and blood and anguish” signify in the Inspector's warning?

  It shows the consequences of rejecting responsibility
• What are the key themes of responsibility in Priestley's work?

  • Importance of personal responsibility
  • Importance of collective responsibility
  • Critique of capitalism and socialism
  • Generational differences in accepting responsibility