Responsibility

• Priestley explores responsibility through the treatment of Eva Smith, the Inspector's lessons and whether each character accepts responsibility for their behaviour or not
• "We don't live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other" Inspector, Act 3

  Summaries Priestley's message(didactic play) using the inspector as a mouthpiece for socialist promotions. Proves that Inspector is a foil to Mr Birling. Has connotations of the human body(if the heart stops beating, you die) so shows reliance on each other is essential in life. "We" includes everyone and suggests everyone is guilty(invites the audience to think)
• "I know I'm to blame and I'm desperately sorry" Sheila, Act 1

  Is a stark contrast to her parent's denial(shows generational divide). She is accepting her responsibility and feels guilt for her "petty" actions. "Desperately" emphasises the extreme degree that Sheila has regret. Provides hope to the audience because the younger generations are willing to change and learn
• "All mixed up together like bees in a hive" Mr Birling, Act 1

  A foolish and naive attempt to trivialise the concept of socialism and responsibility (shows naivety and stupidity). Simile suggests there will be chaos- the bee is a symbol for the working class in Manchester. Causes the audience to reflect on their own social standing and social responsibility. Shows he's foolish because bees actually work hard to provide for others.
• "It's better to ask for the Earth than to take it" Inspector, Act 1


  Hyperbolic metaphor to show how the wealthy and powerful take no responsibility. It emphasises Birling's cruel prejudices and their privileges. Turns Mr Birling's words on him and manipulates them . Links to the Russian Revolution of 1917 where workers overthrew Russia's capitalist class - Priestley was very interested in this. He could be offering a warning that if society doesn't change then revolution could spread.