Gender Roles and Social Responsibility

This page examines the themes of gender roles and social responsibility in An Inspector Calls, essential topics for any comprehensive An Inspector Calls key themes analysis pdf.

Priestley uses the characters' attitudes towards women to highlight societal gender expectations of the time. Gerald's description of Daisy Renton reveals prevalent stereotypes:

Quote: "Young fresh and charming"

Analysis: The use of "fresh" portrays Daisy as naïve and helpless, reflecting societal views of women as vulnerable and in need of protection.

Gerald's comment about women who don't conform to his ideals further illustrates gender prejudices:

Quote: "I hate those hard-eyed dough-faced women"

This statement reveals how women were often judged primarily on their appearance and expected to meet certain standards of femininity.

Sheila's character development throughout the play challenges these gender norms. Initially, she appears to conform to the stereotype of a submissive wife:

Quote: "Is this the one you wanted me to have?"

This question to Gerald implies Sheila's initial eagerness to please her husband and defer to his decisions. However, as the play progresses, Sheila becomes more assertive and independent, questioning societal norms.

The theme of social responsibility is closely intertwined with gender and class issues in the play. Mrs. Birling's attitude towards Eva Smith exemplifies the lack of social responsibility among the upper class:

Quote: "Girls of that class"

Mrs. Birling's dismissive tone reveals her prejudice against working-class women and her refusal to acknowledge any responsibility towards them.

Even after the Inspector's investigation, Mrs. Birling fails to learn or show remorse:

Quote: "I should think not Eric. I'm absolutely ashamed of you."

This response to Eric's actions demonstrates her continued lack of social awareness and responsibility.

In contrast, Eric's character arc demonstrates a growing sense of social responsibility:

Quote: "You may be letting yourself out nicely but I can't"

This statement in the final act shows Eric taking responsibility for his actions, unlike his parents.

Highlight: The contrast between the older and younger generations' responses to social responsibility is a key element in An Inspector Calls key themes analysis gcse english, demonstrating Priestley's message about the need for social change.