The Purpose of the Inspector in the Play An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley

The Purpose of the Inspector in the Play An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley

An inspector calls is written by J.B Priestley and is about a

prosperous manufacturer named Arthur Birling. In the early years of

last century, he is holding a family dinner party to celebrate his

daughter's engagement. Into this cosy and happy scene intrudes a

police inspector called Inspector Goole. He is apparently

investigating the suicide of a young working class woman and under the

pressure of his interrogation every member of the family turns out to

have a shameful secret that links them to her death.

The main character in this play is inspector Goole, the name sounds

like "ghoul" this is someone who has interest in death. He also makes

an impression of massiveness, solidity. He grows and remains very

solid when every other character breaks down. He also uses the

information he holds create an impression of someone who is both an

outsider and omniscient, this makes him look powerful and mysterious.

Inspector Goole is a strong-minded person who still remains strong

while all the characters break down. This shows that the inspector

knows what exactly he is doing. The inspector also allows secrets to

be revealed even though the other family members are present. The

inspector is in control of everything in the room, despite the

importance of the Arthur Birling and the Crofts in the community. This

shows the audience that the Inspector knows how to keep in control of

serious situations.

The inspector also demonstrates how people are responsible for how

they affect the lives of others. "We don't live are alone. We are

members of one body. We are responsible for each other." The inspector

sees the world as a community where everyone should be helping each

other out. This shows that the inspector voices Priestley's socialist

views.

In my opinion the purpose of the inspector was to blame the Birling

family and make the feel guilty for what they have done. He is a very

strong-minded character and keeps control of the situation very well.