An Inspector Calls by J.B.Priestley

An Inspector Calls by J.B.Priestley

"Priestley's play is unusual in that a character, the Inspector, could

be said to direct the action of the play."

This is a comment made by a theatre critic about the play "An

Inspector Calls", and the character, Inspector Goole. By studying the

play, I find that I can justify myself in agreeing with the critic's

statement; that the Inspector does direct and control the action of

the play.

I am aware of how Priestley has incorporated various strategies and

techniques of control into the character of the Inspector, which are

use continuously throughout the play. Also, of Priestley's use of

dramatic irony to cause reactions in the audience and to create

certain feelings towards each character within the play. It is clear

that the Inspector is used as a "mouthpiece" for Priestley's own views

on the social structures in early 20th century England. I am tending

to agree with the critic's comment.

Inspector Goole can be described an enigmatic, determined and

forceful. It is these characteristics, which ensure his control over

the events of the play. His mysterious demeanour means that the family

is not prepared for the way in which he speaks to them and behaves

towards them. He is determined in his search for the full story and

forceful in making each character face up to their guilt and

responsibility.

The Inspector refuses to be intimidated and doesn't back down when

threatened, even by Birling's ultimate threat, that Chief Constable

Roberts is "An old friend" and that they "play golf together

sometimes."

By this the Inspector is totally unfazed and replies dryly, "I don't

play...

... middle of paper ...

... will be taught it in fire and blood and

anguish."

This final speech made by Inspector Goole, enforces my belief that the

Inspector is J.B.Priestley's "mouthpiece" for his social views and

beliefs.

In agreement with the theatre critic, I think that "Priestley's play

is unusual in that a character, the Inspector, could be said to direct

the action of the play." This is a valid comment. Priestley has

created a dramatically successful, controlling character and makes use

of dramatic irony to enable the Inspector to voice his own personal

views effectively. He has done this by creating a character that

puzzles the audience with his behaviour, controls the other characters

with his manner and displays socialist values in his speeches. The

theatre critic's comment is very true of the character of Inspector

Goole.