Social Responsibility in An Inspector Callsis a pivotal theme... Show more
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Subjects
Classic Dramatic Literature
Modern Lyric Poetry
Influential English-Language Authors
Classic and Contemporary Novels
Literary Character Analysis
Romantic and Love Poetry
Reading Analysis and Interpretation
Evidence Analysis and Integration
Author's Stylistic Elements
Figurative Language and Rhetoric
Show all topics
Human Organ Systems
Cellular Organization and Development
Biomolecular Structure and Organization
Enzyme Structure and Regulation
Cellular Organization Types
Biological Homeostatic Processes
Cellular Membrane Structure
Autotrophic Energy Processes
Environmental Sustainability and Impact
Neural Communication Systems
Show all topics
Social Sciences Research & Practice
Social Structure and Mobility
Classic Social Influence Experiments
Social Systems Theories
Family and Relationship Dynamics
Memory Systems and Processes
Neural Bases of Behavior
Social Influence and Attraction
Psychotherapeutic Approaches
Human Agency and Responsibility
Show all topics
Chemical Sciences and Applications
Chemical Bond Types and Properties
Organic Functional Groups
Atomic Structure and Composition
Chromatographic Separation Principles
Chemical Compound Classifications
Electrochemical Cell Systems
Periodic Table Organization
Chemical Reaction Kinetics
Chemical Equation Conservation
Show all topics
Nazi Germany and Holocaust 1933-1945
World Wars and Peace Treaties
European Monarchs and Statesmen
Cold War Global Tensions
Medieval Institutions and Systems
European Renaissance and Enlightenment
Modern Global Environmental-Health Challenges
Modern Military Conflicts
Medieval Migration and Invasions
World Wars Era and Impact
Show all topics
2,291
โข
6 Feb 2026
โข
Social Responsibility in An Inspector Callsis a pivotal theme... Show more







This section deepens the exploration of how Priestley presents social responsibility in An Inspector Calls through Eric's transformation and Mrs. Birling's continued denial.
Quote: "I don't see much nonsense about it when a girl goes and kills herself. You lot may be letting yourselves out nicely, but I can't."
Definition: Social responsibility in the play refers to the moral obligation of individuals to consider the welfare of others in society.
The Inspector's message about greed and entitlement directly challenges the Birling family's privileged worldview.
Highlight: The Inspector's statement "It's better to ask for the earth than to take it" serves as a central critique of capitalist exploitation.

The third page examines how age influences characters' sense of social duty, particularly highlighting the contrast between younger and older generations.
Quote: "You're beginning to pretend now that nothing's really happened at all."
Analysis: Eric's confrontation with his parents represents the younger generation's more progressive social consciousness.
Mrs. Birling's character exemplifies the older generation's rigid class prejudices and moral inflexibility.
Example: Her statement "So I was perfectly justified in advising my committee not to allow her claim for assistance" demonstrates her unrepentant attitude.

The final section explores how gender intersects with social responsibility, particularly through male characters' attitudes toward women.
Quote: "...not only something to make 'em look prettier - but well, a sort of sign or token of their self-respect."
Vocabulary: Patronising - treating with apparent kindness which betrays a feeling of superiority
The text reveals how patriarchal attitudes contribute to social irresponsibility through the objectification and dismissal of women's experiences.
Highlight: Gerald's comment about "hard-eyed dough-faced women" reveals the casual misogyny that underlies the male characters' lack of social conscience.

The intersection of gender and social responsibility is examined through male characters' attitudes toward women.
Quote: "...not only something to make 'em look prettier - but well, a sort of sign or token of their self-respect."
Analysis: Mr Birling social responsibility quotes reveal his patronizing attitude toward women, demonstrating how gender bias intersects with social responsibility.

The text explores how class prejudice affects characters' sense of social responsibility.
Quote: "If you don't come down sharply on some of these people, they'd soon be asking for the earth."
Highlight: Eva Smith's journey through different social positions highlights the impact of class prejudice on social responsibility.

The opening establishes the central theme of social responsibility in An Inspector Calls through the characters' contrasting reactions to Eva Smith's death.
Quote: "If we were all responsible for everything that happened to everybody we'd had anything to do with, it would be very awkward, wouldn't it?"
Highlight: Mr Birling's dismissive attitude represents the older generation's resistance to social change and responsibility.
Sheila's character development demonstrates growing social awareness. Her willingness to acknowledge wrongdoing contrasts sharply with her father's stubborn denial.
Example: Sheila's confession "At least I'm trying to tell the truth" shows her moral growth and acceptance of responsibility.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ all at your fingertips.
App Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Social Responsibility in An Inspector Calls is a pivotal theme exploring how different characters respond to their role in Eva Smith's death through generational and class divides.
Key aspects:

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
This section deepens the exploration of how Priestley presents social responsibility in An Inspector Calls through Eric's transformation and Mrs. Birling's continued denial.
Quote: "I don't see much nonsense about it when a girl goes and kills herself. You lot may be letting yourselves out nicely, but I can't."
Definition: Social responsibility in the play refers to the moral obligation of individuals to consider the welfare of others in society.
The Inspector's message about greed and entitlement directly challenges the Birling family's privileged worldview.
Highlight: The Inspector's statement "It's better to ask for the earth than to take it" serves as a central critique of capitalist exploitation.

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The third page examines how age influences characters' sense of social duty, particularly highlighting the contrast between younger and older generations.
Quote: "You're beginning to pretend now that nothing's really happened at all."
Analysis: Eric's confrontation with his parents represents the younger generation's more progressive social consciousness.
Mrs. Birling's character exemplifies the older generation's rigid class prejudices and moral inflexibility.
Example: Her statement "So I was perfectly justified in advising my committee not to allow her claim for assistance" demonstrates her unrepentant attitude.

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The final section explores how gender intersects with social responsibility, particularly through male characters' attitudes toward women.
Quote: "...not only something to make 'em look prettier - but well, a sort of sign or token of their self-respect."
Vocabulary: Patronising - treating with apparent kindness which betrays a feeling of superiority
The text reveals how patriarchal attitudes contribute to social irresponsibility through the objectification and dismissal of women's experiences.
Highlight: Gerald's comment about "hard-eyed dough-faced women" reveals the casual misogyny that underlies the male characters' lack of social conscience.

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The intersection of gender and social responsibility is examined through male characters' attitudes toward women.
Quote: "...not only something to make 'em look prettier - but well, a sort of sign or token of their self-respect."
Analysis: Mr Birling social responsibility quotes reveal his patronizing attitude toward women, demonstrating how gender bias intersects with social responsibility.

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The text explores how class prejudice affects characters' sense of social responsibility.
Quote: "If you don't come down sharply on some of these people, they'd soon be asking for the earth."
Highlight: Eva Smith's journey through different social positions highlights the impact of class prejudice on social responsibility.

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The opening establishes the central theme of social responsibility in An Inspector Calls through the characters' contrasting reactions to Eva Smith's death.
Quote: "If we were all responsible for everything that happened to everybody we'd had anything to do with, it would be very awkward, wouldn't it?"
Highlight: Mr Birling's dismissive attitude represents the older generation's resistance to social change and responsibility.
Sheila's character development demonstrates growing social awareness. Her willingness to acknowledge wrongdoing contrasts sharply with her father's stubborn denial.
Example: Sheila's confession "At least I'm trying to tell the truth" shows her moral growth and acceptance of responsibility.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ all at your fingertips.
81
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: โ 50+ Practice Questions โ Interactive Flashcards โ Full Mock Exam โ Essay Outlines
Explore a comprehensive collection of quotes from Tennessee Williams' 'A Streetcar Named Desire', organized thematically. This resource covers key themes such as mental health, female sexuality, and family dynamics, providing insightful analysis for English Literature students. Perfect for exam preparation and deepening your understanding of the play's complex characters and motifs.
Explore the complexities of Lennie Small from 'Of Mice and Men' through this detailed character analysis. Understand his dependence on George, his innocence, and the societal challenges he faces. This summary highlights key themes and character traits, making it an essential resource for literature students studying Steinbeck's work.
Explore the multifaceted character of Shylock in 'The Merchant of Venice'. This summary delves into key themes such as prejudice, revenge, and mercy, highlighting significant scenes including the bond speech and the court scene. Understand Shylock's role as both a villain and a victim, and how his experiences reflect the societal tensions of 16th-century Venice. Ideal for students studying character analysis and thematic elements in literature.
Explore the character of Mr Birling from J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This detailed profile includes a summary of his role, key themes such as capitalism and selfishness, significant quotes, and adjectives that define his character. Ideal for students studying the play, this resource highlights Birling's impact on the narrative and his representation of greedy businessmen.
Analysis and dive into the book In Cold Blood
Explore 15 pivotal quotations from 'An Inspector Calls' with in-depth analysis of key characters including Gerald, Sheila, Eric, and the Inspector. This resource highlights themes of social responsibility, class differences, and gender inequalities, providing essential context for understanding Priestley's critique of early 20th-century society.
App Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user