Analyzing J.B. Priestley's An Inspector Calls for GCSE

About the Play

An Inspector Calls is a thought-provoking play by J.B. Priestley, first performed in 1945. It explores social responsibility and the consequences of class divides through the lens of a fictional family, the Birlings, who are visited by a mysterious Inspector regarding the suicide of a young working-class woman.

Social and Political Themes

Priestley uses the play to comment on the sharp class divisions and lack of compassion towards the less privileged in early 20th century Britain. Key themes include:

• Social Responsibility: The Inspector's interrogation reveals how the Birlings' selfish actions indirectly contributed to the young woman's death, highlighting the need for social responsibility.
• Capitalism vs. Socialism: The ideological clash between Birling's capitalist views and the Inspector's socialist leanings underscores the play's political commentary.
• Gender Inequality: The plight of the young woman exposes the unfair treatment and exploitation faced by working-class women at the time.

Dramatic Techniques

Priestley employs various dramatic techniques to convey his message effectively:

• Dramatic Irony: The audience knows more about the Inspector's purpose than the Birling family, creating dramatic tension.
• Time and Setting: The play is set in 1912, but written in 1945, allowing Priestley to comment on the past while addressing contemporary audiences.
• Inspector's Role: The Inspector acts as a mouthpiece for Priestley's socialist beliefs, often breaking the fourth wall to address the audience directly.

Worked Example: Analyzing Priestley's Message

Excerpt: "We don't live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other."

Analysis: This quote, spoken by the Inspector, summarizes Priestley's central message about social responsibility and the interdependence of society. It reinforces the play's critique of individualism and encourages collective empathy.