Inspector Calls Flashcards
Who is the author of ‘An Inspector Calls’?
J.B. Priestley
What is the setting of the play ‘An Inspector Calls’?
The Birling family home in Brumley, a fictional industrial city in the North Midlands
What is the central message that Priestley wants to convey through the play?
The idea of social responsibility and the consequences of one’s actions
What time period is ‘An Inspector Calls’ set in?
1912
What is the name of the mysterious inspector in the play?
Inspector Goole
What is the significance of the inspector’s name ‘Goole’?
It alludes to the word ‘ghoul’, suggesting a supernatural or ghostly presence
What is the inspector’s purpose in visiting the Birling family?
To investigate the suicide of Eva Smith and expose the family’s role in her downfall
What is the final message of the play ‘An Inspector Calls’?
The importance of treating others with compassion, empathy, and understanding
What social class does the Birling family belong to?
Upper class
What is the role of Eva Smith in the play?
She represents the voiceless working class who are exploited and mistreated by the upper class
What is the significance of the play being set in 1912?
To highlight the social issues and inequalities of the time, as well as foreshadowing the impending World War I
What is the climax of the play ‘An Inspector Calls’?
When the characters realize their collective responsibility for Eva Smith’s death and mistreatment
What is the theme of deception in the play ‘An Inspector Calls’?
The characters’ lies and deceit ultimately lead to their downfall and exposure
What is the significance of the lighting changes in the play?
They symbolize the shifting moods and revelations throughout the story
What is the role of the Birling family in Eva Smith’s life?
Each member plays a part in her tragic story through their actions and indifference
What is the overall tone of the play ‘An Inspector Calls’?
A mix of mystery, suspense, and moral questioning
How does Priestley use the character of the inspector to challenge the audience’s views on social responsibility?
By exposing the characters’ hypocrisy and selfishness, he forces the audience to reflect on their own actions
What is the role of Sheila Birling in the play ‘An Inspector Calls’?
She represents the potential for change and growth, as she learns from the inspector’s revelations
What is the significance of the final phone call in the play ‘An Inspector Calls’?
It suggests that the characters have a chance for redemption and change moving forward
How does Priestley use dramatic irony in ‘An Inspector Calls’?
He allows the audience to know more than the characters, creating tension and emphasizing the characters’ ignorance
What is the role of Mr. Birling in the play ‘An Inspector Calls’?
He represents capitalist greed and arrogance, contributing to Eva Smith’s tragic fate
What is the significance of the inspector’s final speech in the play ‘An Inspector Calls’?
It serves as a moral lesson and warning about the consequences of selfish actions
How does Priestley use the motif of time in the play ‘An Inspector Calls’?
To suggest that the characters’ past actions have a lasting impact on the present and future
What is the role of Gerald Croft in ‘An Inspector Calls’?
He represents the hypocrisy of the upper class and their disregard for the lower classes
What is the significance of the inspector’s exit at the end of the play?
It leaves the characters and audience questioning the inspector’s identity and purpose
