An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley

An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley

The inspector wants to show and teach the Birlings that they are

responsible for how they affect the lives of others (Eva Smith). The

inspector tries to make the family clear that each uncaring behaviour

can produce serious consequences. While the children Sheila and Erik

notice and then admit their heartless acting, their parents just see

their legal innocence and do not accept any moral guilt.

J.B Priestley's main concerns about the class divide were how the

middle class treated the working class. Priestley is trying to show

that the upper classes are unaware that the easy lives they lead rest

upon hard work of the lower classes.

By setting the play in 1912 and presenting it to a later audience, J.B

priestly has covered an era which includes both world wars. This was

his way of expressing a sense of urgency which he thought necessary to

pass on to society so that they would not forget what had just turned

out and to capture attention.

Most of the characters learn a lot about themselves and others. Mr

Birling discovers the death of Eva and feels no guilt for not

protecting the girl. He feels justified in sacking the girl.

Mrs Birling remains solid and also refuses to see how her actions

could have been responsible for the girl's death. Her refusal to help

the girl was what led to her suicide. It was only after she realises

that Eric was the child's father she begins to show signs of

weakening.

Eric wants his parents to admit their mistakes as he freely admitted

his. Though he is not a very pleasant character we may feel that he

has learnt a lesson, that he is sincerely ashamed of his behaviour and

he is capable of changing for the better.

The characters respond in a different manner towards the inspector's

questions. Firstly Mr Birling, he's a wealthy factory owner

(businessman), his first main concern is to make money& get power! He

strongly believes that "a man has to make his own way".