Inspector Calls Practice Questions Flashcards
What do the main characters in “An Inspector Calls” represent?
Arthur Birling is meant to represent the stereotype of a rich, powerful capitalist who cares little for the well being of others he doesn’t deem important enough such as the working class being people like Eva Smith.
Eva Brown is meant to be the majority of working class people at the time. This is especially shown when Shelia says “and there are many more Eva Smith’s and John Smiths out there.” Showing that most people in society live lives like the ones shown in the play and that everyone should look after each other. “We are members of one body, we are responsible for each other.” From Inspector Goole.
Shelia is a vehicle for socialism within the play and essentially acts as Priestley’s voice and he uses Shelia as a character to show that. Shelia demonstrates very caring and altruistic views when she says “they are not workers, they’re people!” This greatly juxtaposes the uncaring attitude of her father who is happy to simply exploit workers if it leads to his financial gain, regardless of the effect this may have on their lives receiving less pay or working incredibly long hours.
What items does Birling bring out during dinner to impress Gerald Croft?
What does he say to impress Gerald?
He brings out the port (an expensive alcoholic drink) and expensive cigars in an effort to show his wealth to his guest Gerald Croft.
He also tells Gerald that he is soon to receive a knighthood which is a show of the influence and power that he holds within the community.
Why does Birling wish to impress Gerald?
Gerald is at Mr Birlings to discuss the potential merging or trading with Birlings company along with Gerald’s fathers company. Birling wishes to impress Croft as he knows he could make money from doing business with him and that is why he drinks port and smokes cigars with him.
How do the stage directions and house description indicate the families social class and wealth?
The families wealth is displayed through their possession of valuable household items such as “good solid furniture” and “port and cigars” that are later brought in to show to Gerald that these luxuries are consumed on a regular basis and not just to show to guests who visit.
Why did Priestly describe the house as “not cosy?”
Because he doesn’t want us to feel that the family is unified and happy in each others company. We see this displayed through their distant relationships and the lack of information passing between them such as Sybil being unaware of Eric’s drinking problems.
This exposes to us that just because a family is rich physically doesn’t mean they are rich inside regarding their personal relationships with friends and family. Subtly telling us that money isn’t everything and this should not be the main focus of people’s lives.
