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1,531
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2 Jan 2026
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An Pham
@apham
An Inspector Calls: Guilt and Responsibility Analysis
J.B. Priestley's "An... Show more
As "An Inspector Calls" progresses through Acts 2 and 3, the theme of guilt in An Inspector Calls becomes more pronounced. Each character's involvement in Eva Smith's life and death is revealed, forcing them to confront their actions and the consequences.
Quote: "I behaved badly too. I know I did. I'm ashamed of it!"
This admission from Sheila demonstrates her growth and willingness to accept responsibility for her actions. It contrasts sharply with her parents' attitudes.
Highlight: The characters' reactions to guilt vary significantly, revealing their moral character and capacity for change.
Gerald's response to guilt is complex. While he initially tries to distance himself from the situation, he eventually admits to being affected:
Quote: "In that case - as I'm rather more-upset -by this business than I probably appear to be-and-well, I'd like to be alone for a while - I'd be glad if you'd let me go."
The hesitations in Gerald's speech, indicated by dashes, suggest his struggle with guilt and the need to process his emotions.
Eric's confrontation with his guilt is particularly poignant:
Quote: "Whoever that chap was, the fact remains that I did what I did. And mother did what she did. And the rest of you did what you did to her."
This statement shows Eric's acceptance of responsibility and his understanding that their collective actions led to Eva's death.
Definition: Social responsibility - The idea that individuals have an obligation to act for the benefit of society at large.
The concept of social responsibility is central to the Inspector's message and Priestley's critique of Edwardian society.
Mrs. Birling's refusal to accept guilt stands in stark contrast to her children's growth:
Quote: "I don't believe it. I won't believe it..."
Her denial highlights the generational divide in attitudes towards social responsibility.
The play concludes with a powerful image of guilt:
Quote: "As they stare guiltily and dumbfounded, the curtain falls."
This final stage direction emphasizes the lasting impact of the Inspector's visit and the weight of guilt that now rests on the Birling family.
Example: Sheila's sarcastic comment, "I suppose we're all nice people now?" encapsulates the play's critique of superficial morality and the importance of genuine responsibility.
Through these varied responses to guilt, Priestley crafts a compelling analysis of guilt and responsibility in An Inspector Calls, challenging audiences to consider their own social responsibilities.
In Act 1 of "An Inspector Calls," J.B. Priestley begins to explore the themes of guilt and responsibility in an inspector calls. The arrival of Inspector Goole disrupts the Birling family's celebratory dinner, setting the stage for an examination of each character's role in Eva Smith's death.
Quote: "I don't come into this suicide business."
This quote from Mr. Birling early in the play demonstrates his initial reluctance to accept any responsibility for Eva's death. It sets up the contrast between his attitude and the Inspector's insistence on collective responsibility.
Highlight: The characters' initial reactions to the Inspector's questioning reveal their attitudes towards guilt and social responsibility.
Sheila Birling shows the first signs of genuine remorse and acceptance of guilt. Her reaction to seeing Eva's photograph is particularly telling:
Quote: "She looks at it closely, recognises it with a little cry, gives a half-stifled sob, and then runs out."
This stage direction illustrates Sheila's immediate recognition of her involvement and the overwhelming guilt she feels. It marks the beginning of her character development throughout the play.
Vocabulary: Remorse - Deep regret or guilt for a wrong committed.
The concept of remorse is central to understanding how different characters in the play deal with their actions and their consequences.
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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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
An Pham
@apham
An Inspector Calls: Guilt and Responsibility Analysis
J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" explores the themes of guilt and responsibility in an inspector callsthrough the Birling family's interactions with Inspector Goole. The play reveals how each character grapples with their... Show more
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As "An Inspector Calls" progresses through Acts 2 and 3, the theme of guilt in An Inspector Calls becomes more pronounced. Each character's involvement in Eva Smith's life and death is revealed, forcing them to confront their actions and the consequences.
Quote: "I behaved badly too. I know I did. I'm ashamed of it!"
This admission from Sheila demonstrates her growth and willingness to accept responsibility for her actions. It contrasts sharply with her parents' attitudes.
Highlight: The characters' reactions to guilt vary significantly, revealing their moral character and capacity for change.
Gerald's response to guilt is complex. While he initially tries to distance himself from the situation, he eventually admits to being affected:
Quote: "In that case - as I'm rather more-upset -by this business than I probably appear to be-and-well, I'd like to be alone for a while - I'd be glad if you'd let me go."
The hesitations in Gerald's speech, indicated by dashes, suggest his struggle with guilt and the need to process his emotions.
Eric's confrontation with his guilt is particularly poignant:
Quote: "Whoever that chap was, the fact remains that I did what I did. And mother did what she did. And the rest of you did what you did to her."
This statement shows Eric's acceptance of responsibility and his understanding that their collective actions led to Eva's death.
Definition: Social responsibility - The idea that individuals have an obligation to act for the benefit of society at large.
The concept of social responsibility is central to the Inspector's message and Priestley's critique of Edwardian society.
Mrs. Birling's refusal to accept guilt stands in stark contrast to her children's growth:
Quote: "I don't believe it. I won't believe it..."
Her denial highlights the generational divide in attitudes towards social responsibility.
The play concludes with a powerful image of guilt:
Quote: "As they stare guiltily and dumbfounded, the curtain falls."
This final stage direction emphasizes the lasting impact of the Inspector's visit and the weight of guilt that now rests on the Birling family.
Example: Sheila's sarcastic comment, "I suppose we're all nice people now?" encapsulates the play's critique of superficial morality and the importance of genuine responsibility.
Through these varied responses to guilt, Priestley crafts a compelling analysis of guilt and responsibility in An Inspector Calls, challenging audiences to consider their own social responsibilities.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
In Act 1 of "An Inspector Calls," J.B. Priestley begins to explore the themes of guilt and responsibility in an inspector calls. The arrival of Inspector Goole disrupts the Birling family's celebratory dinner, setting the stage for an examination of each character's role in Eva Smith's death.
Quote: "I don't come into this suicide business."
This quote from Mr. Birling early in the play demonstrates his initial reluctance to accept any responsibility for Eva's death. It sets up the contrast between his attitude and the Inspector's insistence on collective responsibility.
Highlight: The characters' initial reactions to the Inspector's questioning reveal their attitudes towards guilt and social responsibility.
Sheila Birling shows the first signs of genuine remorse and acceptance of guilt. Her reaction to seeing Eva's photograph is particularly telling:
Quote: "She looks at it closely, recognises it with a little cry, gives a half-stifled sob, and then runs out."
This stage direction illustrates Sheila's immediate recognition of her involvement and the overwhelming guilt she feels. It marks the beginning of her character development throughout the play.
Vocabulary: Remorse - Deep regret or guilt for a wrong committed.
The concept of remorse is central to understanding how different characters in the play deal with their actions and their consequences.
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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English LiteratureExplore key themes, character analyses, and social commentary in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This flashcard set covers the impact of capitalism and socialism, character representations, and the evolution of societal roles from 1912 to 1945. Perfect for exam preparation and deepening your understanding of the play's critical messages.
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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