An Inspector Calls Flashcards
Understand: Plot, Characters, Themes and Quotes
Who is the playwright of AN Inspector Calls?
J.B.Priestely
Why is Mr Birling happy about the marriage?
It benefits his business as he can build a relationship with Crofts Limited
Who are the main characters in an Inspector calls?
The Inspector, Mr Birling, Mrs Birling, Sheila, Gerald, Eric and Eva Smith
What does the quote “feel engaged”, suggest about Sheila? (She has just got her ring at this point)
It suggests that she needs a ring to feel engaged.
What are some predictions that Mr Birling makes?
“The Germans don’t want war”, “Unsinkable!” , “labour troubles will be over soon”.
What did Mr Birling do Eva Smith? Why?
He sacked her from his factory because she was a “ringleader” in the strikes.
What happened to Eva Smith after she got sacked?
She was unemployed for two months until she found a job at Milwards (a department store)
Eva Smith gets sacked at Milwards. Why does this happen to her?
Sheila is trying on a dress and she sees Eva smiling. She thinks Eva Smith is mocking her as it does not suit her. She complains to the store and says that if she is not fired, then she will get her mum to stop doing business there. The shop doesn’t want to lose the Birlings as a customer so they fire her.
How does Sheila react differently to her responsibility than her father?
Birling try’s to deflect the blame while Sheila is very guilty of her actions.
Where was Gerald “last summer”? What happens next?
He was having an affair with Daisy Renton or Eva Smith. Next, he thinks he can hide it from the Inspector but Sheila tells him otherwise knowing he’ll find out. He then walks in dramatically saying “Well”.
When Mrs Birling is given the suggestion that Eric drinks too much, how does she react?
She ignores this while the others are aware of it. This shows us that a character like Gerald knows more about Eric than Mrs Birling does.
How did Eric find Daisy Renton / Eva Smith?
He was hanging in the Place Variety bar, a place known to be the hangout of “women of the night” or prostitutes.
What happens between Daisy Renton and Gerald next? What is Sheila’s reaction?
Gerald gives Daisy Renton food, water and a place to stay out of sympathy. He then develops a relationship with her. After having to leave for a business trip, he gives her some money and leaves her. Sheila gives him the engagement ring back.
Where does Eva Smith go after the Gerald incident?
Eva Smith goes to the Brumley Women’s Charity Organisation for help.
What happens at the charity?
Eva Smith appeals for help under the name of “Mrs Birling”. The real Mrs Birling who his addressing her, takes offence to this and refuses any help to Eva Smith, even when she does tell the truth.
