An Inspector Calls

Question 1

Give some quotes that relate to social responsibility.

Answer 1

• “All right Gerald, you needn’t look at me like that. At least I’m trying to tell the truth. I expect you’ve done things you’re ashamed of too.” - Sheila
• “If we were all responsible for everything that happened to everybody we’d had anything to do with, it would be very awkward, wouldn’t it?” - Mr. Birling
• “I don’t see much nonsense about it when a girl goes and kills herself. You lot may be letting yourselves out nicely, but I can’t. Nor can mother. We did her in all right.” - Eric
• “I should think not. Eric, I’m absolutely ashamed of you.” - Mrs. Birling
• “It’s better to ask for the earth than to take it.” - Inspector Goole
• “You’d think everybody has to look after everybody else, as if we were all mixed up like bees in a hive - community and all that nonsense.” - Mr. Birling

Question 2

Give a quote that relates to age.

Answer 2

• “Why, you hysterical young fool - get back - or I’ll -“ - Mr. Birling

Question 3

Give quotes that relate to class.

Answer 3

• “If you don’t come down sharply on some of these people, they’d soon be asking for the earth.” - Mr. Birling
• “As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!” - Mrs. Birling

Question 4

Give some quotes that relate to morality.

Answer 4

• “If we were all responsible for everything you that happened to everybody we’d had anything to do with it would be very awkward, wouldn’t it?” - Mr. Birling
• “I was sure of a knighthood.” - Mr. Birling (after everything revealed)
• “We’ve done a lot of work helping deserving cases.” - Mrs. Birling
• “She came to you for help, at a time when no woman could’ve needed it more.. you not only refused it but used your influence to see that the others refused it too.” - Inspector
• “(Rather distressed) It’s just that I can’t stop thinking about this girl.” - Sheila
• “It frightens me the way you talk.” - Eric
• “I’m ashamed of you,” “ I don’t blame you.” Mrs. Birling and Eric

Question 5

What kind of play is it?

Answer 5

Well-made play. Addresses topical issues

Question 6

Give some quotes from Gerald.

Answer 6

• “Sure to be, unless Eric’s been up to something.” In reference to the knighthood, lots of irony.
• “All right. I knew her. Let’s leave it at that.” He’s evasive about his involvement with Eva Smith.
• “The girl saw me looking at her and then gave me a glance that was nothing less than a cry for help.” Being honest, he genuinely cared.

Question 7

Give some quotes from the inspector.

Answer 7

• “[…he creates at once an impression of massiveness, solidity and purposefulness.]” He’s a strong figure.
• “Her position now is that she lies with a burnt out inside on a slab.” Emotive language and imagery.
• “And I tell you that the time will soon come when, if men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish. Good night.” Prophetic, omniscient?

Question 8

Give a quote from Sheila from the beginning of the play, then one from the end of the play.

Answer 8

• “I’m sorry Daddy actually I was listening.” Quick to apologise, naïve.
• “I tell you - whoever that inspector was, it was anything but a joke.” More assertive, less childish.