Key Quotes from An Inspector Calls

An Inspector Calls is a pivotal work in GCSE English Literature, and understanding its key quotes is essential for students aiming for top grades. This page presents a collection of significant quotes that offer insight into the characters and themes of J.B. Priestley's play.

Highlight: The quotes on this page reveal the characters' initial reactions and attitudes towards their involvement in Eva Smith's death, showcasing the play's central themes of responsibility and social class.

Sheila Birling's quote, "..and I've been so happy tonight. Oh I wish you hadn't told me," demonstrates her initial self-centered mindset. This reaction is typical of her privileged background, showing how disconnected she is from the consequences of her actions.

Quote: "Probably a socialist or some sort of crank" - Mr Birling

Mr Birling's dismissive comment about the Inspector reveals his narrow-minded and conservative views. This quote is crucial for understanding his character and the older generation's resistance to social change.

Mrs Birling's statements, "I'm very sorry. But I think she had only herself to blame" and "I accept no blame at all," highlight her arrogance and refusal to accept responsibility. These quotes are essential for analyzing her character and the theme of social responsibility in the play.

Example: Mrs Birling's refusal to accept blame exemplifies the upper class's tendency to distance themselves from the problems of the working class, a key social critique in the play.

Sheila's realization, "You and I aren't the same people who sat down to dinner here," marks a turning point in her character development. This quote is vital for discussing the generational divide and the younger characters' capacity for change.

Eric Birling's admission, "I was in that state when a chap easily gets nasty," shows his willingness to accept responsibility, contrasting with his parents' attitudes.

Vocabulary: "Nasty" in this context refers to Eric's aggressive or inappropriate behavior when drunk, leading to his involvement with Eva Smith.

Gerald Croft's statement, "I didn't install her there so that I could make love to her," reveals his attempt to justify his actions while also objectifying Daisy Renton (Eva Smith). This quote is crucial for discussing the theme of male privilege and the exploitation of working-class women.

Finally, Inspector Goole's powerful line, "You'll be able to divide the responsibility between you when I've gone," encapsulates the play's central message about collective social responsibility.

Definition: "Divide the responsibility" refers to the Inspector's belief that each character bears a part of the blame for Eva Smith's death, emphasizing the interconnectedness of society.

These Inspector Calls key quotes and analysis provide a solid foundation for students preparing for their GCSE English Literature An Inspector Calls quotes and analysis exams. Understanding these quotes and their context is crucial for developing a grade 9 analysis of the play's characters and themes.