Tension In An Inspector Calls

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How Does J.B. Priestly use the inspector for dramatic effect in his play “An Inspector Calls”? Inspector Goole is an exceedingly important character to the plot since he holds two personas, one being an omniscient, God-like figure and on the other hand a detective. Moreover, he is the voice of JB Priestly who has a strong socialist message of community. His message also comes across as a Christian one, which links to the biblical quotation, “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interest of others.” Philippians 2 1:30. The Inspector’s intention in the play is to show people what they have done wrong and to show others the ability to recognise their responsibilities in the community and society overall. Priestley’s …show more content…

However, in the 1912 era, it would have been quite normal for a man of Eric’s class to take advantage of venerable women, such as Eva. J.B. Priestley uses the Inspector to create dramatic effect and tension by suggesting that the Inspector is God. He often implies this by having the Inspector use moral and biblical language in his dialogue, particularly in his last speech. “We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other. And I tell you that the time will soon come when, if men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught in fire and blood and anguish.” He also becomes more God like as the play progresses because he seems to gain control over the characters, a control that God has over human beings. The play would not progress without him as he controls the action by deciding who is next for confession. For example in act I, how he changes the focus of his interrogation from Sheila to Gerald in a highly dramatic way. “At the end of January, last year, this girl Eva Smith had to leave Milwards, because Miss Birling compelled them to discharge her, and then she stopped being Eva Smith, looking for a job, she became Daisy Renton, with other ideas. Mr Croft, when did you first get to know

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