Context

• How does the play reflect post-WWII social attitudes in 1945 Britain?

  Priestley wrote An Inspector Calls in 1945 but set it in 1912 to critique the pre-war class system and warn audiences of the need for social change and collective responsibility after the devastation of two world wars.
• Why is the concept of social responsibility important in the context of the play?

  After WWII, there was a growing belief in social welfare and community. Priestley uses the play to promote this idea, encouraging audiences to care for others and reject selfish individualism prevalent before 1914.
• How does Priestley’s political background influence the play?

  Priestley was a socialist who believed in equality and social justice. The play reflects his views by exposing the flaws of capitalism and the moral duty to help the vulnerable.
• Why is the 1912 setting significant?

  1912 was before major social reforms and WWI. Setting the play then highlights the arrogance of the upper class and the injustices that led to social upheaval, warning that ignoring these issues risks repeating history.
• How does the play reflect attitudes toward class and gender in early 20th century Britain?

  The play critiques rigid class divisions and the limited roles of women, showing how these inequalities contribute to exploitation and suffering, urging audiences to challenge traditional power structures.