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1,650
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4 Jan 2026
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Katie Merrett
@katiemerrett
An Inspector Calls: Character Analysis and Dramatic Devices
J.B. Priestley's... Show more
Priestley employs various dramatic devices to enhance the play's impact and convey its themes effectively. These devices contribute to the tension, suspense, and overall dramatic effect of the performance.
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and foreshadowing events:
Example: The change in lighting from "pink and intimate" to "brighter and harder" when the Inspector arrives symbolizes the exposure of the characters' hidden truths.
Sound effects and entrances/exits are used to create dramatic tension:
Highlight: The Inspector's arrival is announced with a "sharp ring of the doorbell," signaling a disruption to the Birlings' comfortable existence.
Props serve as important tools for revealing information and maintaining suspense:
Example: The photograph of Eva Smith, shown only to one character at a time, creates uncertainty and builds tension among the characters and audience.
Dramatic irony is employed to engage the audience and highlight the characters' ignorance:
Quote: "These silly little war scares" - This statement by Arthur Birling demonstrates dramatic irony, as the audience knows that World War I is imminent.
Cliffhangers are used to maintain audience engagement:
Example: Act One ends with the Inspector saying "Well?" to Sheila and Gerald, leaving the audience in suspense.
The play's structure and form contribute to its overall impact:
Highlight: The play's form as a live performance allows the audience to experience the tension alongside the characters, enhancing the impact of Priestley's message about collective responsibility.
Priestley carefully crafts the themes and structure of "An Inspector Calls" to critique social inequality and promote collective responsibility. The play's cyclical structure reinforces its central messages.
Key themes explored in the play include:
Quote: "We don't live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other." - Inspector Goole
This quote encapsulates the play's central theme of collective responsibility, challenging the individualistic attitudes represented by characters like Arthur Birling.
The play's structure supports its themes:
Highlight: The play's structure mirrors the process of social awakening, with characters gradually realizing their role in Eva Smith's death.
Symbolism is used throughout the play to reinforce its themes:
Example: The dining room setting symbolizes the Birlings' privileged lifestyle, which is gradually dismantled by the Inspector's revelations.
The play's exploration of these themes and its carefully crafted structure contribute to its enduring relevance and impact on audiences, encouraging reflection on personal and societal responsibilities.
Arthur Birling, the patriarch of the Birling family, is portrayed as a self-assured and pompous businessman. His character represents the older generation's values and attitudes.
Quote: "We don't guess - we've had experience - and we know"
This quote exemplifies Arthur's overconfidence and dismissive attitude towards others' opinions. He values his reputation and social status above all else, as evidenced by his concern for potential scandals.
Highlight: Arthur Birling's character traits include being pompous, self-assured, dismissive, and keen to impress.
In contrast, Eric Birling undergoes significant character development throughout the play. Initially presented as a secret drinker and irresponsible young man, Eric becomes more aware of his actions and their consequences.
Quote: "You lot may be letting yourselves out nicely, but I can't"
This statement demonstrates Eric's growing sense of responsibility and remorse for his actions. Unlike his father, Eric becomes more empathetic and willing to acknowledge his mistakes.
Example: Eric's insistence on giving Eva Smith money to support her shows a level of responsibility and kindness not initially apparent in his character.
The contrast between Arthur and Eric Birling highlights the generational divide and the potential for change in societal attitudes.
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 – 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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
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
Katie Merrett
@katiemerrett
An Inspector Calls: Character Analysis and Dramatic Devices
J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls" explores themes of social responsibility, class, and morality through its characters and dramatic techniques. The play revolves around the Birling family and their involvement in the... Show more
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Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Priestley employs various dramatic devices to enhance the play's impact and convey its themes effectively. These devices contribute to the tension, suspense, and overall dramatic effect of the performance.
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and foreshadowing events:
Example: The change in lighting from "pink and intimate" to "brighter and harder" when the Inspector arrives symbolizes the exposure of the characters' hidden truths.
Sound effects and entrances/exits are used to create dramatic tension:
Highlight: The Inspector's arrival is announced with a "sharp ring of the doorbell," signaling a disruption to the Birlings' comfortable existence.
Props serve as important tools for revealing information and maintaining suspense:
Example: The photograph of Eva Smith, shown only to one character at a time, creates uncertainty and builds tension among the characters and audience.
Dramatic irony is employed to engage the audience and highlight the characters' ignorance:
Quote: "These silly little war scares" - This statement by Arthur Birling demonstrates dramatic irony, as the audience knows that World War I is imminent.
Cliffhangers are used to maintain audience engagement:
Example: Act One ends with the Inspector saying "Well?" to Sheila and Gerald, leaving the audience in suspense.
The play's structure and form contribute to its overall impact:
Highlight: The play's form as a live performance allows the audience to experience the tension alongside the characters, enhancing the impact of Priestley's message about collective responsibility.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Priestley carefully crafts the themes and structure of "An Inspector Calls" to critique social inequality and promote collective responsibility. The play's cyclical structure reinforces its central messages.
Key themes explored in the play include:
Quote: "We don't live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other." - Inspector Goole
This quote encapsulates the play's central theme of collective responsibility, challenging the individualistic attitudes represented by characters like Arthur Birling.
The play's structure supports its themes:
Highlight: The play's structure mirrors the process of social awakening, with characters gradually realizing their role in Eva Smith's death.
Symbolism is used throughout the play to reinforce its themes:
Example: The dining room setting symbolizes the Birlings' privileged lifestyle, which is gradually dismantled by the Inspector's revelations.
The play's exploration of these themes and its carefully crafted structure contribute to its enduring relevance and impact on audiences, encouraging reflection on personal and societal responsibilities.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Arthur Birling, the patriarch of the Birling family, is portrayed as a self-assured and pompous businessman. His character represents the older generation's values and attitudes.
Quote: "We don't guess - we've had experience - and we know"
This quote exemplifies Arthur's overconfidence and dismissive attitude towards others' opinions. He values his reputation and social status above all else, as evidenced by his concern for potential scandals.
Highlight: Arthur Birling's character traits include being pompous, self-assured, dismissive, and keen to impress.
In contrast, Eric Birling undergoes significant character development throughout the play. Initially presented as a secret drinker and irresponsible young man, Eric becomes more aware of his actions and their consequences.
Quote: "You lot may be letting yourselves out nicely, but I can't"
This statement demonstrates Eric's growing sense of responsibility and remorse for his actions. Unlike his father, Eric becomes more empathetic and willing to acknowledge his mistakes.
Example: Eric's insistence on giving Eva Smith money to support her shows a level of responsibility and kindness not initially apparent in his character.
The contrast between Arthur and Eric Birling highlights the generational divide and the potential for change in societal attitudes.
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 – all at your fingertips.
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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the complex character of Eric Birling from 'An Inspector Calls'. This analysis delves into his sympathetic nature towards the working class, his emotional struggles, and the consequences of his actions, including his relationship with Eva Smith. Key themes include guilt, capitalism, and moral responsibility. Ideal for students studying character development and social commentary in literature.
English LiteratureExplore key quotes from Mr Birling in 'An Inspector Calls' that reveal his arrogant, capitalist mindset and dramatic irony. This analysis highlights his dismissive attitude towards community and the younger generation, showcasing his inability to accept differing opinions. Ideal for understanding character dynamics and themes in the play.
English LiteratureExplore the intricate symbolism of the handkerchief in Act 3, Scene 4 of Shakespeare's Othello. This analysis delves into themes of race, gender, and the supernatural, highlighting how Othello's perception of Desdemona's fidelity is manipulated by Iago. Understand the societal implications of interracial relationships and the tragic consequences of jealousy and deceit. This essay provides critical insights into the text's exploration of loyalty, innocence, and the destructive power of societal norms.
English LiteratureExplore the character of Gerald Croft in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This analysis delves into his relationships, class privilege, and gender dynamics, highlighting key quotes and their implications. Understand how Gerald's actions reflect societal attitudes towards responsibility and the treatment of women. Ideal for literature students studying character development and thematic elements.
English LiteratureExplore 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.
English LiteratureExplore the key themes and context of Kazuo Ishiguro's 'Never Let Me Go'. This summary delves into the dystopian elements, the concept of cloning, and the protagonist's journey from childhood to adulthood. Ideal for students studying literature and looking to understand the societal implications of cloning and identity. Type: Summary.
English LiteratureApp 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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
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 it’s 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 didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
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
Biology
Sociology