Class Flashcards
Overview
In An Inspector Calls, Priestley critiques the class system, highlighting the exploitation and indifference of the upper class toward the working class. The Birlings’ selfish attitudes reflect social inequality, while the Inspector urges collective responsibility. Priestley advocates for social change, emphasising the need for equality and empathy across all classes.
Quotes
‘I was an alderman for years - and Lord Mayor two years ago’ - Pg 11
‘I don’t play golf’ - Pg 16
‘Girls of that class.’ - Pg 30
‘There’ll be a public scandal’ - Pg 57
‘I was an alderman for years - and Lord Mayor two years ago’
Point - Mr Birling’s mention of his past titles highlights his belief in social superiority, reinforcing the power and privilege of the upper class.
Choice - Mr. Birling’s use of the pronoun “I,” as seen in the statement “I was an alderman for years,” highlights his obsession with personal success and social status. His later shift to “we” reflects his attempt to align himself with the upper class, using his position to shield himself from individual responsibility.
Effect - Birling’s emphasis on his status reinforces the class divide, showing how the upper class prioritises power and influence over moral responsibility. Priestley critiques the arrogance of the ruling class, exposing their tendency to use status as a means of evading accountability. This contrasts with the Inspector’s message of collective responsibility, encouraging the audience to challenge class-based privilege and consider the need for a more equal society.
‘I don’t play golf’
Point - The Inspector’s refusal to participate in elite activities like golf emphasises his rejection of the privileged lifestyle.
Choice - When the Inspector says, “I don’t want to play golf” in Act 1, it is a deliberate rejection of Mr. Birling’s upper-class values and his preoccupation with social status. Golf, representing the leisure and self-indulgence of the wealthy, is dismissed by the Inspector, who prioritises addressing societal issues and personal responsibility over materialism and status symbols.
Effect - This statement challenges the audience to reconsider the importance of wealth and status in society. By rejecting the elitist pastime, the Inspector critiques the class system and the self-centered attitudes of the upper class. This line encourages the audience to focus on moral issues and the need for social justice, advocating for a more compassionate, collective approach to society.
“Girls of that class.”
Point - Mrs Birling is presented as dismissive and prejudiced, reinforcing her belief in her social superiority while ironically working for a charity.
Choice - The determiner ‘that’ is spoken in a dismissive and insulting way, implying that all working-class people are the same and beneath her. Mrs. Birling’s assumption that a working-class woman would lack morals, such as not hesitating to take stolen money, reinforces her belief in her own social superiority.
Effect - This is deeply ironic, as she works for a charity meant to help women she openly looks down upon. Priestley uses her character to critique the upper class, showing how their charitable actions are often more about maintaining prestige and a sense of superiority rather than genuine generosity.
‘There’ll be a public scandal’
Point - The fear of truths being revealed reflects the upper class’s obsession with maintaining their status and the consequences of losing social prestige.
Choice - Mr. Birling’s remark, “There’ll be a public scandal,” highlights his concern for reputation and social standing. His fear of scandal outweighs any moral reflection, showing that the wealthy prioritise their image over the welfare of the working class.
Effect - This focus on social appearance underscores class inequality, as the struggles of the working class are ignored while the wealthy obsess over status. Priestley critiques the upper class’s failure to accept social responsibility, using the Inspector’s investigation as a call for change, urging the audience to embrace collective moral accountability.
