An Inspector Calls explores themes of social responsibility, class... Show more
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Sophia + Charlotte
26/09/2025
English Literature
An inspector calls - quote analysis
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26 Sept 2025
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In Depth Inspector Calls Quote Analysis - Sparknotes, PDF, Quizlet & Key Quotes
1 / 3
Breaking Down Social Barriers
Sheila's character development is crucial in demonstrating the potential for change. Despite being broken by the revelations, she actively tries to break down the divide between the upper and working classes.
Quote: "You mustn't try to build up a kind of wall between us and that girl"
This statement shows Sheila's growing awareness of social responsibility and her rejection of the capitalist mindset that separates people based on class.
Highlight: The use of "that girl" to refer to Eva Smith is dismissive and dehumanizing, emphasizing the class divide that Sheila is beginning to question.
Priestley uses the metaphor of walls to represent the social barriers between classes. These walls are described as solid and strong but can be broken, suggesting that societal change is possible but requires effort.
Example: The contrast between Sheila's evolving perspective and her parents' rigid views illustrates the generational divide in accepting social responsibility.
The play emphasizes that the younger generation is key to moving society forward. This aligns with Inspector calls socialism vs capitalism quote interpretation, highlighting the potential for change through education and awareness.
Definition: Convergence - The process of coming together or the state of having come together from different directions.
The concept of convergence is applied to Sheila's character arc, as she moves from a sheltered, capitalist mindset towards a more socially conscious, socialist perspective.
Symbolism and Foreshadowing
Priestley employs rich symbolism and foreshadowing to convey his message about social responsibility and the consequences of capitalist indifference.
The name Eva Smith carries significant symbolism:
Vocabulary: Eve - In biblical tradition, the first woman created by God.
• Eva/Eve represents life-giving, ironically contrasting with her suicide • Smith is a common surname, representing the working class • The combination suggests that Eva represents all working-class women
Quote: "Millions and millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths"
This quote emphasizes the universality of Eva's experience and the widespread nature of social injustice.
The Inspector's final speech contains powerful foreshadowing:
Quote: "And I tell you that the time will soon come when, if men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish."
This ominous warning alludes to future conflicts (possibly World War II) and emphasizes the urgent need for social change.
Highlight: The mention of "fire and blood and anguish" creates a hellish image, suggesting severe consequences for failing to embrace social responsibility.
The play's use of time theory and its dream-like quality contribute to the sense that the Inspector's visit is more than just an interrogation—it's a moral lesson and a warning about the future.
Through these literary devices and powerful themes, An Inspector Calls quotes and Analysis reveal Priestley's critique of capitalism and his advocacy for a more equitable, socialist society. The play continues to resonate with audiences, offering in-depth Inspector Calls quote analysis that remains relevant to contemporary social issues.
Inspector's Control and Socialism vs Capitalism
The Inspector exerts full control over the characters, creating a dream-like atmosphere reminiscent of Dr. Dunne's time theory. This setting allows for a deeper exploration of the play's themes, particularly the contrast between socialism and capitalism.
Highlight: The Inspector's interrogation technique creates an intimidating atmosphere, making it harder for the characters to lie and forcing them to confront the truth.
The play presents socialism as the brighter option, symbolized by the metaphor of bees working together in a honeycomb. This imagery emphasizes the interconnectedness of society and the importance of collective responsibility.
Quote: "All mixed up together like bees in a hive"
This simile underscores the play's socialist message, suggesting that a well-functioning society requires cooperation and mutual support.
Vocabulary: Proletariat - The working-class people regarded collectively.
The capitalist views of the Birling family are challenged throughout the play. Priestley uses the metaphor of puppets on a string to illustrate how the Inspector manipulates the characters, exposing their involvement in Eva Smith's death.
Quote: "He's giving us the rope so that we'll hang ourselves"
This metaphor highlights the Inspector's role in revealing the family's guilt and the consequences of their actions.
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Stefan S
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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
In Depth Inspector Calls Quote Analysis - Sparknotes, PDF, Quizlet & Key Quotes
An Inspector Calls explores themes of social responsibility, class divisions, and moral accountability through the interrogation of the Birling family by the mysterious Inspector Goole. The play critiques capitalism and advocates for socialist ideals, using symbolism and metaphors to... Show more
Breaking Down Social Barriers
Sheila's character development is crucial in demonstrating the potential for change. Despite being broken by the revelations, she actively tries to break down the divide between the upper and working classes.
Quote: "You mustn't try to build up a kind of wall between us and that girl"
This statement shows Sheila's growing awareness of social responsibility and her rejection of the capitalist mindset that separates people based on class.
Highlight: The use of "that girl" to refer to Eva Smith is dismissive and dehumanizing, emphasizing the class divide that Sheila is beginning to question.
Priestley uses the metaphor of walls to represent the social barriers between classes. These walls are described as solid and strong but can be broken, suggesting that societal change is possible but requires effort.
Example: The contrast between Sheila's evolving perspective and her parents' rigid views illustrates the generational divide in accepting social responsibility.
The play emphasizes that the younger generation is key to moving society forward. This aligns with Inspector calls socialism vs capitalism quote interpretation, highlighting the potential for change through education and awareness.
Definition: Convergence - The process of coming together or the state of having come together from different directions.
The concept of convergence is applied to Sheila's character arc, as she moves from a sheltered, capitalist mindset towards a more socially conscious, socialist perspective.
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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Symbolism and Foreshadowing
Priestley employs rich symbolism and foreshadowing to convey his message about social responsibility and the consequences of capitalist indifference.
The name Eva Smith carries significant symbolism:
Vocabulary: Eve - In biblical tradition, the first woman created by God.
• Eva/Eve represents life-giving, ironically contrasting with her suicide • Smith is a common surname, representing the working class • The combination suggests that Eva represents all working-class women
Quote: "Millions and millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths"
This quote emphasizes the universality of Eva's experience and the widespread nature of social injustice.
The Inspector's final speech contains powerful foreshadowing:
Quote: "And I tell you that the time will soon come when, if men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish."
This ominous warning alludes to future conflicts (possibly World War II) and emphasizes the urgent need for social change.
Highlight: The mention of "fire and blood and anguish" creates a hellish image, suggesting severe consequences for failing to embrace social responsibility.
The play's use of time theory and its dream-like quality contribute to the sense that the Inspector's visit is more than just an interrogation—it's a moral lesson and a warning about the future.
Through these literary devices and powerful themes, An Inspector Calls quotes and Analysis reveal Priestley's critique of capitalism and his advocacy for a more equitable, socialist society. The play continues to resonate with audiences, offering in-depth Inspector Calls quote analysis that remains relevant to contemporary social issues.
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
Inspector's Control and Socialism vs Capitalism
The Inspector exerts full control over the characters, creating a dream-like atmosphere reminiscent of Dr. Dunne's time theory. This setting allows for a deeper exploration of the play's themes, particularly the contrast between socialism and capitalism.
Highlight: The Inspector's interrogation technique creates an intimidating atmosphere, making it harder for the characters to lie and forcing them to confront the truth.
The play presents socialism as the brighter option, symbolized by the metaphor of bees working together in a honeycomb. This imagery emphasizes the interconnectedness of society and the importance of collective responsibility.
Quote: "All mixed up together like bees in a hive"
This simile underscores the play's socialist message, suggesting that a well-functioning society requires cooperation and mutual support.
Vocabulary: Proletariat - The working-class people regarded collectively.
The capitalist views of the Birling family are challenged throughout the play. Priestley uses the metaphor of puppets on a string to illustrate how the Inspector manipulates the characters, exposing their involvement in Eva Smith's death.
Quote: "He's giving us the rope so that we'll hang ourselves"
This metaphor highlights the Inspector's role in revealing the family's guilt and the consequences of their actions.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
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.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
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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Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
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