Inspector Calls Context Flashcards
Who became king after Queen Victoria died in 1901?
King Edward VII
This marked the transition from the Victorian era to the Edwardian era.
What significant event occurred on April 15, 1912?
The Titanic sank
Approximately 1,500 people died in this disaster.
What year did World War I break out?
1914
This event marked the beginning of a major global conflict.
When did Germany surrender in World War I?
1918
This event marked the end of World War I.
Approximately how many lives were lost during World War I?
8 million
This figure includes both military and civilian casualties.
What major global conflict began in 1939?
World War II
This conflict involved many nations and was one of the deadliest in history.
What was the approximate death toll of World War II?
60 million
This figure includes Holocaust victims, soldiers, and civilians, representing about 2.5% of the world’s population.
What significant social structure existed in the 1920s?
A very strict social hierarchy
The rich and the poor were divided, with little concern from the wealthy for the less fortunate.
What economic system characterized society during the 1920s?
Laissez-faire society
There was no welfare system, and capitalists dominated the country.
What happened to young men during World War I regardless of their social status?
They were forced to conscript to the armed forces
This meant that both rich and poor had to fight in the war.
What monumental change occurred for women in 1918?
Women were given the vote
Although men were still viewed as the superior gender, this was a significant step forward for women’s rights.
What personal experience did Priestley have during WWI?
He served and was wounded by mortar fire
His experiences changed his perception of society.
When was ‘An Inspector Calls’ published?
1945
This was during a time of great disorder in Britain.
What important moral message is conveyed in ‘An Inspector Calls’?
The importance of taking care of one another
This message emerged during a time when people had to support each other.
What was Priestley’s political ideology?
Socialist
Priestley advocated for socialism, focusing on social justice and equality.
What period dismayed Priestley due to poverty and political extremism?
The period between the two world wars
This period was marked by economic hardship and the rise of extreme political movements.
What is the main message of ‘An Inspector Calls’?
A plea for a fairer society
The play addresses social responsibility and the need for a more equitable community.
What idea was Priestley influential in developing?
The Welfare State
The Welfare State aims to provide social security and support for citizens, especially in times of need.
Which political party established the Welfare State in the years following WWIl?
The Labor Party
The Labor Party played a key role in implementing policies for social welfare in post-war Britain.
What views did Priestley hold?
Held Socialist views
This is about shared responsibility and collective welfare.
What is the main idea behind shared responsibility according to Priestley?
People come together to gain a fair standard of living
This emphasizes the importance of community and equality.
What is one of Priestley’s beliefs regarding resources?
Equal access to resources for all
This aims to reduce disparities between socioeconomic classes.
What does Priestley suggest about the gap between the rich and poor?
The gap between rich and poor should be smaller
This promotes social equity and justice.
What is Priestley’s main message regarding public services?
Public health service is essential
This reflects the need for government involvement in health care.
What are the three components that make up the Welfare State?
- Unemployment Benefit
- Old-Age Pensions
- Child Support
These components provide financial security to citizens.
What types of services are included in social services?
- Education
- Medical Care
- Medications
- Housing
These services are vital for the well-being of citizens.
What is the role of the state in the context of the Welfare State?
The state undertakes to protect citizens’ well-being and health
This highlights the government’s responsibility towards its citizens.
What is the main belief of socialism according to Priestley?
We are all responsible for helping each other in society
This reflects the idea that society should work collectively to support its members.
What should those who are more fortunate do in a socialist society?
Help the less fortunate
This emphasizes the moral obligation of the wealthy to assist those in need.
What is a key principle of taxation in socialism?
The rich should pay higher taxes to help the poor
This principle is aimed at wealth redistribution.
What is the fundamental idea behind public services in socialism?
Public services that everyone can access
This underlines the belief in equal access to essential services.
Complete the phrase representing socialism: People before _______.
profit
What is the main belief of capitalism as represented by Mr. Birling?
The rich should be entitled to keep their money
This reflects the capitalist emphasis on individual wealth accumulation.
According to capitalism, what should individuals be able to do?
Look after themselves
This highlights the personal responsibility aspect of capitalism.
What is the stance on public services in capitalism?
Public services should be privatised to maximise profit for businesses
This indicates a preference for profit-driven management of services.
Complete the phrase representing capitalism: Profit before _______.
people
What does socialism advocate for regarding wealth distribution?
Sharing wealth will make the world a better place
This reflects the belief in collective welfare.
What is the primary difference between socialism and capitalism?
Socialism focuses on collective responsibility while capitalism emphasizes individual profit
This distinction is fundamental to understanding the two ideologies.
