Themes

Question 1

Capitalism vs Socialism

Answer 1

Priestley criticises the selfishness of capitalism and desires a fairer, socialist future after the horrors of two world wars.

Question 2

Generations

Answer 2

Priestley demonstrates that the older generation are set in their ways, while the younger generation are more malleable and open to change for the future

Question 3

Responsibility

Answer 3

Priestley prompts the audience to examine their individual and collective responsibility to society in order to promote the idea of a socialist welfare state.

Question 4

Hypocrisy

Answer 4

The hypocrisy of mid-class Edwardian society is uncovered; the façade of respectability matter more than morality.

Question 5

Sinfulness

Answer 5

Priestley demonstrates that the older generation are set in their ways, while the younger generation are more malleable and open to change for the future

Question 6

Gender

Answer 6

Priestley prompts the audience to examine their individual and collective responsibility to society in order to promote the idea of a socialist welfare state.