An Inpector Calls Flashcards
What is the setting of An Inspector Calls?
The play is set in 1912, in the Birling family’s dining room, in a fictional town in England.
What is the main theme of An Inspector Calls?
The main theme is social responsibility, with Priestley exploring the consequences of individual actions on society
Who is the inspector in An Inspector Calls?
Inspector Goole is a mysterious character who arrives at the Birling household and investigates the suicide of a young woman, Eva Smith.
What is the significance of Eva Smith in the play?
Eva Smith represents the working class and the consequences of exploitation by the upper class. Her death symbolizes the neglect of social responsibility.
How does Mr. Arthur Birling view social responsibility?
Mr. Birling is a capitalist who believes that people should look after themselves and that the government should not interfere in business. He dismisses the importance of social responsibility.
How does Sheila Birling change throughout the play?
Sheila starts as a naive, self-absorbed young woman but becomes more socially aware and accepts her role in Eva Smith’s downfall. She recognizes the importance of collective responsibility.
How does Eric Birling contribute to Eva Smith’s death?
Eric Birling had an affair with Eva Smith, which led to her pregnancy. When she needed money, he stole from his father’s business to support her but ultimately abandoned her
What is the significance of the Inspector’s final speech?
The Inspector’s final speech emphasizes the need for social responsibility, warning that if people do not learn to care for one another, they will face harsh consequences, symbolizing Priestley’s socialist message.
How does Mrs. Sybil Birling react to the events of the play?
Mrs. Birling refuses to accept any responsibility for Eva Smith’s death, believing that Eva’s situation was caused by her own mistakes. She represents the stubbornness and hypocrisy of the upper class.
What is the significance of the Birling family’s reactions to the Inspector’s investigation?
Each family member’s reaction reveals their attitudes toward class, responsibility, and morality. While some show remorse, others like Mr. and Mrs. Birling remain unrepentant, highlighting the divide between the generations.
What is the role of the character Gerald Croft?
Gerald Croft is Sheila’s fiancé. He had a relationship with Eva Smith (under the name Daisy Renton) and is initially portrayed as a sympathetic character, but his actions also contribute to Eva’s downfall
I How does the play end?
The play ends ambiguously when the family learns that no Inspector Goole was ever sent, suggesting that the events were a moral test. However, the phone rings, and another girl has committed suicide, implying the cycle of irresponsibility continues.
