In "An Inspector Calls," J.B. Priestley uses lighting and the... Show more
Biology
SociologySign 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
353
•
17 Jan 2026
•
Inspector Goole in 'An Inspector Calls' - Key Quotes and Analysis
georgia
@georgiamay
Stage Lighting and Dramatic Impact
Ever wondered why Priestley was so specific about the lighting in his play? The stage directions reveal everything you need to know about the Inspector's role.
The lighting starts "pink and intimate" when we meet the Birlings, creating that cosy family atmosphere. But this "pink" lighting connects to the idiom "rose-tinted glasses" – it shows the family's false optimism and superficial harmony. Their intimacy is just pretence.
Everything changes when the Inspector arrives. The lighting becomes "brighter and harder", and this isn't just for dramatic effect. Brighter lighting symbolises how the Inspector will expose the family's hidden flaws. Harder lighting reflects his interrogation style – that unnerving way he stares at people before speaking.
Key Insight: The lighting change mirrors the social change Priestley wanted to see in real society – moving from comfortable ignorance to harsh truth.
From his very first entrance, Inspector Goole is presented as an omnipotent, powerful figure whose presence literally transforms the atmosphere.
The Inspector's Identity and Symbolism
Who exactly is Inspector Goole? This question haunts audiences long after the curtain falls, and Priestley deliberately keeps us guessing.
The Inspector's language packs an emotional punch. When he describes Eva Smith being "burnt inside out", the violent verb creates a visceral response. The phrase "inside out" cleverly parallels how the Birling family gets turned inside out – the Inspector exposes what's hidden inside and makes it public.
His message about "shared guilt" using the inclusive pronoun "we" subverts our expectations. Instead of dividing society, he offers hope through socialist ideologies and collective responsibility.
Three possible interpretations of the Inspector emerge: He could represent Priestley himself – a mouthpiece for the playwright's political frustrations after being sacked by the BBC. Alternatively, "Goole" sounds like "ghoul," suggesting a supernatural conscience that haunts us into moral change. His final warning of "fire, blood and anguish" certainly feels like a prophecy of war and hell.
Think About This: Some critics argue he's just another manipulative man who uses his power to target women like Sheila – making him similar to Mr Birling despite his moral message.
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.
Most popular content: An Inspector Calls
Most popular content in English Literature
Most popular content
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 Knowunity AI. 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 Knowunity AI. 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
Inspector Goole in 'An Inspector Calls' - Key Quotes and Analysis
georgia
@georgiamay
In "An Inspector Calls," J.B. Priestley uses lighting and the mysterious Inspector Goole as powerful dramatic devices to expose the flaws of Edwardian society. The Inspector serves as more than just a character – he's a symbol of social conscience... Show more
Stage Lighting and Dramatic Impact
Ever wondered why Priestley was so specific about the lighting in his play? The stage directions reveal everything you need to know about the Inspector's role.
The lighting starts "pink and intimate" when we meet the Birlings, creating that cosy family atmosphere. But this "pink" lighting connects to the idiom "rose-tinted glasses" – it shows the family's false optimism and superficial harmony. Their intimacy is just pretence.
Everything changes when the Inspector arrives. The lighting becomes "brighter and harder", and this isn't just for dramatic effect. Brighter lighting symbolises how the Inspector will expose the family's hidden flaws. Harder lighting reflects his interrogation style – that unnerving way he stares at people before speaking.
Key Insight: The lighting change mirrors the social change Priestley wanted to see in real society – moving from comfortable ignorance to harsh truth.
From his very first entrance, Inspector Goole is presented as an omnipotent, powerful figure whose presence literally transforms the atmosphere.
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
The Inspector's Identity and Symbolism
Who exactly is Inspector Goole? This question haunts audiences long after the curtain falls, and Priestley deliberately keeps us guessing.
The Inspector's language packs an emotional punch. When he describes Eva Smith being "burnt inside out", the violent verb creates a visceral response. The phrase "inside out" cleverly parallels how the Birling family gets turned inside out – the Inspector exposes what's hidden inside and makes it public.
His message about "shared guilt" using the inclusive pronoun "we" subverts our expectations. Instead of dividing society, he offers hope through socialist ideologies and collective responsibility.
Three possible interpretations of the Inspector emerge: He could represent Priestley himself – a mouthpiece for the playwright's political frustrations after being sacked by the BBC. Alternatively, "Goole" sounds like "ghoul," suggesting a supernatural conscience that haunts us into moral change. His final warning of "fire, blood and anguish" certainly feels like a prophecy of war and hell.
Think About This: Some critics argue he's just another manipulative man who uses his power to target women like Sheila – making him similar to Mr Birling despite his moral message.
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.
5
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Juliet's Character Insights
Explore Juliet's complex emotions and assertive nature in 'Romeo and Juliet'. This analysis delves into her struggle for autonomy, the impact of familial conflict, and her passionate love for Romeo. Key themes include fate, love, and the juxtaposition of life and death. Ideal for students studying character development and thematic elements in Shakespeare's work.
English Literature10
Key Poetic Analyses
Explore in-depth analyses of significant poems including 'Tissue', 'War Photographer', 'The Charge of the Light Brigade', 'Exposure', 'Ozymandias', and more. This resource covers themes, language, and structure, providing essential insights for GCSE English Literature students.
English Literature11
Wordsworth's Prelude Analysis
Explore a detailed line-by-line analysis of William Wordsworth's 'The Prelude'. This study note delves into key themes such as nature's personification, the narrator's emotional journey, and the contrasting imagery of serenity and fear. Ideal for GCSE English students seeking to deepen their understanding of Romantic poetry.
English Literature11
Analyzing 'To a Daughter Leaving Home'
Explore the themes and metaphors in Linda Pastan's poem 'To a Daughter Leaving Home'. This detailed analysis highlights the emotional journey of a mother as she reflects on her child's growth and independence. Key concepts include parental anxiety, the symbolism of distance, and the use of emotive language. Ideal for students studying unseen poetry and looking to deepen their understanding of poetic devices and themes.
English Literature10
Kamikaze Poem Analysis
Explore the themes of duty, inner conflict, and the impact of war in Beatrice Garland's 'Kamikaze'. This analysis delves into the poem's rich imagery, symbolism, and emotional depth, highlighting the pilot's struggle between personal desire and societal expectations. Ideal for GCSE English Literature students seeking to deepen their understanding of poetry. Includes key concepts such as suffering, regret, and the contrast between innocence and duty.
English Literature10
The Manhunt Analysis
Explore a detailed analysis of Simon Armitage's poem 'The Manhunt,' focusing on its themes of PTSD, the emotional and physical scars of war, and the impact on relationships. This study note includes comparisons to 'A Wife in London' and highlights key metaphors and interpretations. Ideal for GCSE poetry studies.
English Literature11
Most popular content: An Inspector Calls
Most popular content in English Literature
Most popular content
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 Knowunity AI. 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 Knowunity AI. 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