responsibility theme Flashcards
overview
In An Inspector Calls, responsibility highlights how individual actions affect others. The Inspector holds the Birling family accountable for their roles in Eva Smith’s downfall, critiquing selfishness and urging recognition of moral obligations to society. His message emphasises collective responsibility over individualism.
“A man has to mind his own business and look after himself and his own.”
One key quote is when Mr. Birling says, “A man has to mind his own business and look after himself and his own.” This line highlights Mr. Birling’s strong belief in individualism and self-interest. The phrase “mind his own business” suggests that he believes people should focus solely on their personal affairs and avoid getting involved in others’ problems. This attitude is typical of the upper class at the time, who were often seen as being more concerned with their own wealth and success than with the welfare of others. The repetition of “his own” emphasizes his selfishness and disregard for the broader community. Mr. Birling’s belief that people should “look after himself” shows his refusal to acknowledge any kind of collective responsibility, which directly contrasts with the Inspector’s views about how we are all connected and should care for one another. Through Mr. Birling’s character, Priestley criticizes this individualistic mindset, suggesting that it leads to a lack of empathy and moral responsibility
“I know I’m to blame – and I’m desperately sorry.”
This line shows a significant shift in Sheila’s character, as she begins to understand the consequences of her actions and accepts responsibility for her role in Eva Smith’s downfall. The phrase “desperately sorry” shows that Sheila is deeply regretful and emotionally affected by the situation, which contrasts with her earlier, more carefree attitude. The noun “blame” is crucial because it shows that Sheila is willing to accept full responsibility, rather than deflecting or making excuses like her father. This moment of self-awareness is important because it demonstrates Sheila’s development from a naive and sheltered young woman to someone who understands the importance of moral responsibility. By accepting blame, she starts to recognize that her actions have an impact on others, and this is a major turning point for her character. In contrast to Mr. Birling, who refuses to take any responsibility, Sheila’s willingness to admit her mistakes shows that she is more open to the Inspector’s message of collective responsibility.
We are responsible for each other
This quote is a key moment in the play, as the Inspector directly states that we all have a duty to look out for one another. The adjective “responsible” is significant because it ties back to the central theme of the play — that actions, especially in a social context, affect others. The phrase “each other” suggests that we are all connected, and it’s not just about individual choices but how they impact the wider community. The Inspector’s tone is serious and calm, which contrasts with the shock and defensiveness of the Birlings. This shows how the characters, especially the older generation, are unwilling to accept that they have a collective responsibility, whereas the Inspector is pushing them to realize they are all accountable for each other’s well-being.
“I can’t accept any responsibility”
Mrs. Birling’s refusal to accept responsibility is significant because it shows how some people, especially the upper class, are reluctant to acknowledge their part in others’ suffering. Her blunt, dismissive response reveals her pride and arrogance, as she doesn’t believe she should be held accountable for what happened to Eva Smith. The adjective “responsibility” highlights how she is actively rejecting the very idea of social duty. Her cold tone and lack of empathy contrast sharply with the Inspector’s message of shared accountability. Mrs. Birling’s refusal to change shows how the older generation in the play, like her and Mr. Birling, resist taking responsibility for their actions, whereas the younger characters, such as Sheila and Eric, begin to show signs of understanding.
“You’re beginning to pretend now that nothing’s really happened at all. And I can see you’re not sorry for what you did.
This quote is crucial in Act 3 because it shows how Sheila’s character has evolved throughout the play. At the start, she was more naïve and less aware of her own actions, but now, she is confronting her parents’ lack of remorse. The phrase “pretend now that nothing’s really happened at all” demonstrates her frustration with her parents’ attempt to ignore the reality of what they’ve done. The word “pretend” suggests that Mr. and Mrs. Birling are deliberately choosing to act as though they have no responsibility for Eva Smith’s death, even though they clearly do. Sheila sees through their superficial attitude and calls them out on it, showing how her character has grown in terms of moral awareness. The addition of “I can see you’re not sorry for what you did” underscores the stark difference between Sheila’s genuine remorse and the Birlings’ lack of any real emotional response to their actions. This moment highlights the theme of responsibility by showing that Sheila recognizes the importance of acknowledging one’s mistakes, rather than brushing them off.
“The point is, you don’t seem to have learnt anything.”
Eric’s statement is a key moment of realization in Act 3. He’s addressing his parents, pointing out that despite the Inspector’s visit and the revelations about their behavior towards Eva Smith, they have failed to learn any valuable lesson. “You don’t seem to have learnt anything” emphasizes Eric’s disappointment in his family, particularly their lack of self-awareness and refusal to take responsibility for their actions. This quote reflects the theme of responsibility by highlighting the Birlings’ failure to understand the consequences of their actions. Eric’s frustration contrasts with the moral awakening he’s experiencing. By this point in the play, Eric has come to terms with his guilt and is now calling out his parents for their inability to do the same. It underscores the idea that true responsibility involves introspection and change, not just empty apologies or attempts to escape blame.
connclusion
In conclusion, the theme of responsibility in An Inspector Calls is central to the play’s message, highlighting the importance of acknowledging the impact of our actions on others. Through the Inspector’s moral authority and the contrasting reactions of the characters, the play critiques selfishness and the failure to take accountability. Characters like Sheila and Eric demonstrate growth by accepting their roles in Eva Smith’s tragedy, while Mr. and Mrs. Birling’s refusal to take responsibility exposes their lack of empathy and moral awareness. Ultimately, Priestley uses the theme of responsibility to challenge the audience to consider their own actions and their responsibilities to others in society.
