Introduction to ‘An Inspector Calls’

‘An Inspector Calls’ is a play written by J.B. Priestley in 1945. It is set in 1912 and revolves around the Birling family, who are visited by a mysterious inspector named Inspector Goole. The inspector questions each family member about their connections to a young woman named Eva Smith, who has tragically died.

Key Themes

  1. Social Responsibility: The play explores how people’s actions affect others. The characters learn that they are all connected.
  2. Class and Society: Priestley critiques the class system in early 20th-century Britain, highlighting the differences between the wealthy and the poor.
  3. Gender Roles: The play examines the roles of men and women in society and how these roles impact individuals like Eva Smith.

Literary Fiction vs. Non-Fiction

  • Literary Fiction: This type of writing focuses on character development, thematic depth, and emotional resonance. ‘An Inspector Calls’ is a great example because it delves into complex issues and human behaviour.
  • Non-Fiction: This type of writing presents factual information. It can include essays, biographies, and articles. Examples from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries might include political essays, historical accounts, or social commentary.

Tips for Understanding the Play

  1. Character Analysis: Pay attention to each character’s role and how they change throughout the play. How do their actions contribute to Eva’s fate?
  2. Context: Understanding the historical context of the play enhances your comprehension. Know the differences between 1912 and 1945, especially regarding social classes and women’s rights.
  3. Quotes: Memorise key quotes from the play that highlight its themes. For example, the inspector’s statement, “We are responsible for each other,” captures the central message.
  4. Symbolism: Look for symbols in the play, such as the inspector himself, who represents social conscience.

Questions

Easy Level Questions

  1. Who is the author of ‘An Inspector Calls’?
  2. What year was the play written?
  3. Who visits the Birling family?
  4. What is the name of the young woman who died?
  5. What is the main theme of the play?
  6. Who is the head of the Birling family?
  7. What does the inspector question the family about?
  8. In what year is the play set?
  9. Which character is engaged to Sheila?
  10. What does Mr. Birling do for a living?
  11. How does Sheila feel about her role in Eva’s death?
  12. Who is the youngest Birling child?
  13. What social class do the Birlings belong to?
  14. What does the inspector demand from the Birlings?
  15. How does Mrs. Birling react to Eva’s situation?
  16. What does the inspector reveal about Eva’s death?
  17. What does Gerald do for Eva?
  18. How does the family react to the inspector’s questioning?
  19. What is one consequence of the inspector’s visit?
  20. What lesson does the inspector try to teach the Birlings?

Medium Level Questions

  1. Describe how Mr. Birling’s views reflect the social attitudes of 1912.
  2. Discuss Sheila’s character development throughout the play.
  3. What role does the inspector play in the Birling family’s life?
  4. How does Priestley use dramatic irony in the play?
  5. Explain the significance of the title ‘An Inspector Calls’.
  6. How do the younger and older generations differ in their views on social responsibility?
  7. What does Eva Smith represent in the play?
  8. How does Gerald’s character contribute to the themes of the play?
  9. Discuss the importance of the setting in the play.
  10. How does the inspector challenge the Birlings’ attitudes?
  11. What is the effect of the play’s ending?
  12. How does Priestley use foreshadowing in the play?
  13. What are the main conflicts presented in the play?
  14. How does the inspector’s method of questioning affect the family?
  15. Discuss the significance of the phrase “We are all responsible.”
  16. How does the play reflect Priestley’s views on society?
  17. What is the role of the working class in the play?
  18. How do the characters justify their actions toward Eva?
  19. What lesson does the inspector leave the audience with?
  20. How is the theme of guilt portrayed in the play?

Hard Level Questions

  1. Analyze the character of Inspector Goole and his symbolic meaning.
  2. How does J.B. Priestley use tension to enhance the play’s message?
  3. In what ways does the play critique capitalism?
  4. Discuss the use of dramatic techniques in conveying the themes of the play.
  5. How does the structure of the play contribute to its impact?
  6. Compare and contrast the responses of Sheila and Eric to the inspector’s questioning.
  7. What is the significance of the generational divide in the play?
  8. How does Priestley use language to convey social class differences?
  9. Explore the role of women in ‘An Inspector Calls.’
  10. Discuss the impact of the play on contemporary audiences.
  11. How does the character of Mrs. Birling represent traditional views?
  12. Analyze the theme of denial as portrayed in the play.
  13. What role does morality play in the actions of the characters?
  14. Discuss the significance of the final twist in the play.
  15. How does the inspector serve as a catalyst for change in the characters?
  16. Examine the use of irony in the characters’ perceptions of themselves versus reality.
  17. How does the play address the consequences of individualism versus collectivism?
  18. Discuss how the themes of the play relate to modern society.
  19. What message does Priestley convey about the future through the character of Eric?
  20. How does the inspector’s final speech resonate with the audience?

Answers and Explanations

Easy Level Answers

  1. J.B. Priestley
  2. 1945
  3. Inspector Goole
  4. Eva Smith
  5. Social Responsibility
  6. Arthur Birling
  7. Their connections to Eva Smith
  8. 1912
  9. Sheila Birling
  10. He is a businessman.
  11. She feels guilty and remorseful.
  12. Eric Birling
  13. Upper class
  14. He demands the truth.
  15. She is cold and unfeeling.
  16. She died from a drinking disinfectant.
  17. He helps her financially and romantically.
  18. They become defensive and anxious.
  19. They learn about their moral failures.
  20. The play teaches the importance of social responsibility.

Medium Level Answers

  1. Mr. Birling is self-serving and believes in individual success over community.
  2. Sheila grows from a naive girl to a more aware and responsible individual.
  3. He acts as a moral figure, revealing truths about the family.
  4. The audience knows more than the characters, creating tension.
  5. It suggests that the inspector’s visit is a wake-up call for the family.
  6. The younger generation is more open to change and social responsibility.
  7. She represents the struggles faced by the working class.
  8. Gerald’s actions reveal the class divide and its consequences.
  9. The setting highlights the disparities between classes.
  10. He forces them to confront their guilt and responsibility.
  11. The ending suggests that they haven’t learned anything.
  12. Foreshadowing hints at the tragic fate of Eva Smith.
  13. Conflicts arise from differing beliefs about social duty.
  14. His questioning exposes their hypocrisy.
  15. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of society.
  16. Priestley critiques selfishness and complacency.
  17. They highlight the struggles of the lower classes.
  18. They rationalize their harmful behavior.
  19. The inspector advocates for collective responsibility.
  20. The inspector leaves them with a strong moral lesson.

Hard Level Answers

  1. Inspector Goole represents moral judgment and social conscience.
  2. Tension builds through the inspector’s probing questions and revelations.
  3. The play criticizes capitalism by showing its dehumanizing effects.
  4. Techniques like lighting and pacing enhance emotional responses.
  5. Its linear structure builds suspense and reveals moral lessons.
  6. Sheila and Eric show awareness, while their parents remain in denial.
  7. The generational divide shows differing values and outlooks.
  8. Language signifies class; for example, Mr. Birling’s authoritative tone.
  9. Women are portrayed as victims and are often powerless.
  10. It encourages reflection on social issues still relevant today.
  11. She embodies outdated beliefs and resistance to change.
  12. Denial is shown in how characters refuse to accept their role.
  13. Morality impacts their choices and consequences.
  14. The twist emphasizes the need for social change.
  15. The inspector incites reflection and potential transformation.
  16. Irony highlights the gap between self-image and reality.
  17. The play contrasts selfishness with the need for community.
  18. Themes resonate with issues like inequality and responsibility today.
  19. Eric’s fate warns against reckless behaviour and irresponsibility.
  20. The inspector’s speech connects past actions to future consequences.

Feel free to ask questions if you need more clarification on any part of the play or its themes!