Character Inspector G

• Inspector Goole


  • Need not be a big man
  • Must create an impression of massiveness, solidity and purposefulness
• Inspector Goole


  Presented as a powerful figure with an imposing presence
• Priestley names the Inspector Goole


  Introduces an almost supernatural or ghost-like element to the play
• Inspector Goole


  • Presented as a mysterious character
  • This is further heightened by the series of revelations at the end the play
• The Inspector has an apparent awareness of Eva's death before it has occurred, which also adds an almost supernatural element
• Inspector's entrance in Act I

  1. Makes an immediate impact

  2. Changes the tone of the evening
• Lighting changes from "pink and intimate" to "brighter and harder"


  Suggests the Inspector will place the characters under great scrutiny
• Inspector Goole


  • Exudes an air of authority through his language and actions
  • Controls when each character sees the photograph of Eva, creating intrigue and suspense
  • Controls the unfolding of events and the characters themselves
• Inspector's language


  Carefully composed and moralistic in tone
• The Inspector delivers the most important statements within the play
• Inspector Goole


  • Speaks purposefully and with great assurance which conveys an impression of great knowledge
  • All of the characters are judged by him but he offers neither punishment nor forgiveness as the characters must judge themselves and others
• Ideas relating to social responsibility are repeatedly interwoven throughout the Inspector's dialogue
• The Inspector tries to prevent the group from evading responsibility
• The Inspector delivers the most significant and weighty statements in the play
• The Inspector


  Is the catalyst in the play, bringing about some change<|>As a character he does not change or develop