An Inspector Calls Opening Stage Directions Flashcards
Setting
The play is set in April 1912 in the dining room of a “fairly large suburban house” in Brumley, an industrial city in the North Midlands. The furniture is solid but not cozy, indicating wealth but not warmth.
Lighting
Initially, the lighting is “pink and intimate”, symbolizing the comfortable, sheltered world of the Birlings. When the Inspector arrives, it becomes “brighter and harder”, representing truth and scrutiny.
Mr birling
Arthur Birling: A heavy-looking, “portentous” man in his fifties, reflecting his self-importance.
Mrs birling
Sybil Birling: A “rather cold” woman, socially superior to her husband.
Sheila
Sheila Birling: A “pretty girl in her early twenties,” pleased with life.
Gerald
Gerald Croft: A well-bred, attractive man about thirty, engaged to Sheila.
Eric
Eric Birling: In his early twenties, not quite at ease, hinting at underlying issues.
Why are opening SD important?
Foreshadowing Change – The lighting shift from warm to harsh symbolizes the shift from ignorance to awareness.
Social Class & Wealth – The setting reflects the Birlings’ comfortable yet shallow lifestyle.
Characterization – Each character’s description hints at their flaws and roles in the play.
Edna
Repersents the working class, largely ignored and expected to serve without complaint.
Her lack of involvement in the central drama mirrors how the upper class disregards people like her.
The fact that she brings the Inspector in could symbolize how change comes from the lower classes.
“Edna, the parlour maid, is just clearing the table, which has no cloth, of the dessert plates and champagne glasses, etc., and then replacing them with a decanter of port, cigar box and cigarettes.”
🔹 This reflects the Birlings’ wealth and indulgence, while Edna remains in the background, serving them.
