Age

• What theme is presented in JB Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls"?

  The theme of age
• How does the theme of age influence characters in the play?

  It affects their views, behaviors, and decisions
• Who are the older characters in "An Inspector Calls"?

  1. and Mrs. Birling
• Who are the younger characters in "An Inspector Calls"?

  Eric and Sheila
• What does the theme of age examine in the play?

  How different groups behave based on age
• What might an exam question ask regarding the theme of age?

  About age difference between generations
• How is Gerald described in the play?

  As an attractive man about 30
• How does Gerald's age position him in the play?

  He is between the older and younger generations
• What similarities does Gerald share with the older generation?

  He displays capitalist tendencies and avoids responsibility
• In what way does Gerald show compassion for others?

  He rescued Eva Smith and provided shelter
• How does Gerald's social class affect his views?

  It may reinforce his capitalist beliefs
• How do Sheila and Eric refer to their parents?

  In a polite manner using "mummy" and "father"
• What impression do Sheila and Eric's quotations create about their respect for their parents?

  They act respectfully towards the older generation
• How does Mrs. Birling refer to Sheila, and what does it imply?

  As "this child," implying she is not taken seriously
• What does Mr. Birling's comment about the younger generation reveal?

  He mocks them, showing a lack of respect
• How does Eric feel about his father?

  He feels resentment and cannot confide in him
• What does Sheila express about her responsibility for Eva's death?

  She feels guilty and questions her role
• How do the younger characters demonstrate their guilt?

  They openly admit their involvement and react emotionally
• How does Mrs. Birling respond to guilt?

  She rejects all forms of guilt and responsibility
• What does Mr. Birling's final offer suggest about his feelings of guilt?

  He shows a moment of guilt by offering money
• Who in the older generation does Mrs. Birling represent?

  1. Birling represents the older generation.
• What stance does Mrs. Birling take regarding guilt?

  She rejects all forms of guilt and responsibility.
• How does the adjective "ashamed" relate to Mrs. Birling's feelings?

  It indicates her rejection of guilt.
• How are the older generation portrayed in the text?

  As cold, uncaring, and selfish.
• What does Mr. Birling's offer of money signify?

  His guilt is viewed as financial, not emotional.
• What does Mr. Birling's statement about giving "thousands" imply?

  He feels guilt and wants to undo damage.
• What does the timing of Mr. Birling's offer suggest?

  It is too late for Eva's life and death.
• How does the older generation's acceptance of guilt compare to the younger generation's?

  Older generation is slow to accept guilt.
• What does Eric's dialogue reveal about his learning from the inspector?

  He accepts responsibility for his actions.
• What does Eric's repetition of "I did" signify?

  His acceptance of responsibility for Eva's suicide.
• How does Mr. Birling's attitude change after the inspector leaves?

  He discards any learning from the inspector.
• What does Sheila's claim about the inspector's identity imply?

  She genuinely wants to right her wrongs.
• How does Mrs. Birling's view of the inspector differ from Sheila's?

  1. Birling cares about reputation, Sheila does not.
• What lesson does the inspector teach regarding responsibility?

  We are responsible for our fellow man.
• What does the phrase "fire and blood and anguish" suggest about the consequences of ignoring the inspector's lesson?

  It implies dire consequences for society.
• How does Priestley view the older generation's role in society?

  He condemns their mistakes and selfishness.
• What message does Priestley convey through the younger generation's portrayal?

  He encourages them to embrace socialist values.
• What does the discussion of age differences in the play suggest about societal change?

  It highlights the need for generational learning.
• How does the theme of age difference contribute to the play's overall message?

  It contrasts capitalist and socialist values.
• What should students consider when analyzing the characters' responses to the inspector?

  Whether they challenge or cooperate with him.