An Inspector Calls - CHARACTERS

Question 1

SHEILA:

Through the transformation of Sheila, Priestley promotes..

Answer 1

Hope for a more moral, socialist future. He exhorts the post-war audience to follow her example by developing an attuned conscience and standing up for what is right

Question 2

ERIC:

Through the transformation of Eric, Priestley affords..

Answer 2

Hope for the future by suggesting that even individuals who commit morally and criminally atrocious deeds are capable of redemption if they show genuine remorse and atone for their behaviour

Question 3

WOMEN / EVA:

Through the silent presence of Edna, and Eva’s inability to..

Answer 3

Give her own account of the events leading to her suicide, Priestley criticises the denigration of the female, working class voice

Question 4

MR BIRLING:

Through the ignorant characterisation of Mr Birling, Priestley encourages..

Answer 4

The readers to disassociate with the flawed views and opinions of Arthur Birling. This in turn positions them to associate with the socialist visions of the Inspector who mirrors Priestley’s own political affiliations and desire to promote collective responsibility.

Question 5

GERALD:

By positioning Gerald as a character who evades neat categorisation within..

Answer 5

Either the older or younger generation, Priestley builds tension as to whether he will ultimately chose to accept responsibility for his actions or not. In doing so he reminds the audience that each of us have a choice to make - whilst clearly suggesting there is a right and wrong decision