"An Inspector Calls" - A Concept Map

Concept Map

J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls' is a play that scrutinizes social responsibility and moral conduct through the affluent Birling family and their connection to a young woman's suicide. Set in 1912, the play reveals the family's secrets and their role in the societal injustices of Edwardian Britain. It challenges the audience to reflect on the consequences of their actions and the importance of social consciousness.

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Setting and Time Period Significance

Set in 1912, pre-WWI; highlights dramatic irony and societal attitudes prior to war-induced social changes.

Role of Inspector Goole

Represents moral conscience, prompts self-examination among Birlings; catalyst for revealing characters' links to Eva's demise.

Character Development of Sheila Birling

Transforms from naive to socially aware; recognizes and regrets her role in Eva's fate, contrasts with parents' denial.

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Overview of "An Inspector Calls"

"An Inspector Calls" is a thought-provoking play by J.B. Priestley that examines the themes of social responsibility and ethical conduct within the context of early 20th-century English society. Premiering in 1945, the play is set in 1912 and centers on the prosperous Birling family, who are interrupted during their celebration of Sheila Birling's engagement to Gerald Croft by the unexpected visit of Inspector Goole. The inspector is investigating the suicide of Eva Smith, also known as Daisy Renton, and as he questions each member of the family, their secret connections to the young woman's death are uncovered, revealing their ethical shortcomings and the societal double standards of the time.

Elegant early 20th-century drawing room with a mahogany table set for dinner, green upholstered chairs, and ornate decor including a chandelier and Persian rug.

The Birling Family and the Arrival of Inspector Goole

The first act of "An Inspector Calls" introduces us to the Birling family, who are gathered in their opulent dining room for a dinner party. Arthur Birling, the head of the family, is a self-made businessman and former mayor who staunchly advocates for capitalist principles and self-reliance. He confidently dismisses the possibility of war and social strife as unfounded concerns. The evening's festivities come to an abrupt halt with the entrance of Inspector Goole, who brings news of Eva Smith's suicide. Arthur acknowledges that he once fired Eva from his factory after she demanded higher wages, and Sheila admits to having Eva dismissed from a department store due to envy. Inspector Goole's systematic questioning slowly uncovers the family's involvement in Eva's tragic end, foreshadowing further disclosures.

Revelations and Confessions in Act Two

The second act shifts attention to Gerald Croft, Sheila's betrothed, who reveals his past affair with Eva, whom he knew as Daisy Renton. He had provided her with financial aid and a place to stay, but their relationship eventually ended. Sheila, deeply hurt by this admission, calls off their engagement. The inspector then turns to Sybil Birling, the family matriarch, who had heartlessly rejected Eva's plea for help at a charitable organization. Sheila's increasing distress is juxtaposed with her parents' persistent denial of any wrongdoing. The act reaches a climax when Sybil, without realizing it, implicates her own son, Eric, as the father of Eva's unborn child.

The Final Act: Confrontation and Reflection

The third act begins with the Birling family grappling with the implications of Sybil's revelation as they await Eric's return. Eric admits to his affair with Eva and to stealing money to support her when she became pregnant. His contrition and frustration with his parents' refusal to acknowledge their part in the tragedy underscore the generational gap within the family. Inspector Goole's departing speech underscores the interconnectedness of individuals within society and the imperative of shared responsibility. After he leaves, the Birlings debate whether the inspector was a genuine police officer, only to be stunned by a phone call reporting the death of a young woman by suicide and the imminent arrival of a real inspector. This twist reinforces the play's central messages about the impact of personal actions on society and the moral duty of individuals.

Contextual Significance and Themes of the Play

Written in the aftermath of World War II but set just before World War I, "An Inspector Calls" offers a critique of the social inequalities and class prejudices of Edwardian Britain, as exemplified by the Birlings' treatment of Eva Smith. Priestley's narrative on social responsibility resonated with the post-war yearning for societal transformation, advocating for a more just and compassionate community. The dramatic irony created by the audience's awareness of historical events unknown to the characters serves to undermine the capitalist optimism of figures like Arthur Birling, while emphasizing the necessity for social consciousness and collective accountability.

Character Profiles and Their Roles in Eva Smith's Fate

Each character in "An Inspector Calls" plays a part in the sequence of events leading to Eva Smith's demise. Arthur Birling's dismissal of Eva for advocating for fair pay, Sheila's vindictive actions resulting in Eva's job loss, Gerald's affair and subsequent abandonment, Eric's relationship and misappropriated financial support, and Sybil's denial of assistance all contribute to Eva's decision to end her life. These actions illustrate the characters' varying degrees of social irresponsibility, guilt, and willingness to accept responsibility. The younger characters, such as Sheila and Eric, demonstrate a greater capacity for change and moral growth compared to their elders.

Key Themes and Quotes from "An Inspector Calls"

"An Inspector Calls" delves into themes of social responsibility, class and social disparity, gender roles, guilt and accountability, judgment and consequences, the contrast between age and youth, and the prevalence of hypocrisy. Notable quotes from the play, including Sybil Birling's remarks on gender expectations, Eric's criticism of his father's lack of support, Sybil's refusal to accept blame, and Inspector Goole's insistence on the importance of collective responsibility, encapsulate these themes. The play serves as a moral examination, urging the audience to consider the ripple effects of their actions on others and highlighting the need for empathy and societal reform.

"An Inspector Calls" - A Concept Map

Concept Map

Summary

Outline

"An Inspector Calls" - A Concept Map

Themes

Social Responsibility

Class and Social Disparity

Gender Roles

Plot

Introduction of the Birling Family

Inspector Goole's Investigation

The Twist Ending

Characters

Arthur Birling

Sheila Birling

Eric Birling

Morality and Ethics

Guilt and Accountability

Judgment and Consequences

Hypocrisy

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