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22 Nov 2025

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Exploring Symbolism in 'An Inspector Calls'

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Ender @justend1ng

J.B. Priestley packed "An Inspector Calls" with powerful symbols that reveal the dark truths about Edwardian society. These... Show more

Symbolism In An
Inspector Calls

Sheila's Ring
Sheila's Ring is symbolic of the romance
and relationships in the play. However, it
may also

Key Symbolic Objects

Ever wondered why Priestley chose specific objects to carry deeper meanings? Sheila's ring represents far more than just love between her and Gerald - it's a symbol of how marriage was used as a business transaction between wealthy families in Edwardian times.

The ring also represents the patriarchal control that husbands had over their wives once married. When you think about it, a ring literally binds someone, which perfectly reflects how women lost their independence after marriage.

The disinfectant that kills Eva creates a bitter irony that's essential to understand. Whilst it's meant to symbolically "clean" Eva of her troubles, it actually destroys her completely. This mirrors how the Inspector's investigation should cleanse the Birlings of their guilt, but instead it tears their family apart and exposes their hypocrisy.

Remember Priestley uses everyday objects to reveal uncomfortable truths about society - look for the contrast between what something appears to be and what it actually represents.

Symbolism In An
Inspector Calls

Sheila's Ring
Sheila's Ring is symbolic of the romance
and relationships in the play. However, it
may also

Symbolic Characters and Places

The Palace Bar isn't just a drinking establishment - it's where both Gerald and Eric have their secret encounters with Eva/Daisy. This makes it a symbol of illicit affairs and the moral corruption of supposedly respectable men.

Inspector Goole's name is no coincidence - it sounds exactly like "ghoul," hinting at his supernatural, almost ghostly presence. His omniscient knowledge of everyone's secrets suggests he's more than just an ordinary police officer. Many students find it helpful to see him as Priestley's mouthpiece, representing the playwright's own socialist views and desire for social change.

Eva Smith has the most generic name imaginable, and that's entirely the point. She represents every working-class person suffering under capitalism in Edwardian society. Priestley deliberately made her ordinary because her story could be anyone's story - she's a symbol of an entire social class being exploited.

Top tip When analysing these symbols in essays, always connect them back to Priestley's socialist message and his criticism of capitalist society.

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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

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Sudenaz Ocak

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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

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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

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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

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Elisha

iOS user

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Paul T

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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.

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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.

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Basil

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Xander S

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Elisha

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Paul T

iOS user

 

English Language

182

22 Nov 2025

2 pages

Exploring Symbolism in 'An Inspector Calls'

user profile picture

Ender

@justend1ng

J.B. Priestley packed "An Inspector Calls" with powerful symbols that reveal the dark truths about Edwardian society. These symbols help expose themes of class inequality, moral responsibility, and social justice that are crucial for understanding the play's deeper meaning.

Symbolism In An
Inspector Calls

Sheila's Ring
Sheila's Ring is symbolic of the romance
and relationships in the play. However, it
may also

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

Key Symbolic Objects

Ever wondered why Priestley chose specific objects to carry deeper meanings? Sheila's ring represents far more than just love between her and Gerald - it's a symbol of how marriage was used as a business transaction between wealthy families in Edwardian times.

The ring also represents the patriarchal control that husbands had over their wives once married. When you think about it, a ring literally binds someone, which perfectly reflects how women lost their independence after marriage.

The disinfectant that kills Eva creates a bitter irony that's essential to understand. Whilst it's meant to symbolically "clean" Eva of her troubles, it actually destroys her completely. This mirrors how the Inspector's investigation should cleanse the Birlings of their guilt, but instead it tears their family apart and exposes their hypocrisy.

Remember: Priestley uses everyday objects to reveal uncomfortable truths about society - look for the contrast between what something appears to be and what it actually represents.

Symbolism In An
Inspector Calls

Sheila's Ring
Sheila's Ring is symbolic of the romance
and relationships in the play. However, it
may also

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

Symbolic Characters and Places

The Palace Bar isn't just a drinking establishment - it's where both Gerald and Eric have their secret encounters with Eva/Daisy. This makes it a symbol of illicit affairs and the moral corruption of supposedly respectable men.

Inspector Goole's name is no coincidence - it sounds exactly like "ghoul," hinting at his supernatural, almost ghostly presence. His omniscient knowledge of everyone's secrets suggests he's more than just an ordinary police officer. Many students find it helpful to see him as Priestley's mouthpiece, representing the playwright's own socialist views and desire for social change.

Eva Smith has the most generic name imaginable, and that's entirely the point. She represents every working-class person suffering under capitalism in Edwardian society. Priestley deliberately made her ordinary because her story could be anyone's story - she's a symbol of an entire social class being exploited.

Top tip: When analysing these symbols in essays, always connect them back to Priestley's socialist message and his criticism of capitalist society.

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.

18

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Social Responsibility in An Inspector Calls

Explore the key themes of social responsibility, capitalism, and socialism in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This summary highlights character dynamics, including the contrasting views of the older and younger generations, and provides essential quotes that illustrate the play's moral messages. Ideal for students studying character development and thematic analysis.

English Lang.English Lang.
11

Ozymandias Analysis

Explore a detailed analysis of 'Ozymandias' by Percy Bysshe Shelley, focusing on themes of power, decay, and the irony of human ambition. This study note includes key quotes, literary devices, and interpretations that highlight the poem's commentary on the impermanence of human achievements. Ideal for Grade 8 students preparing for exams or deepening their understanding of classic literature.

English Lang.English Lang.
8

Blake's London Analysis

Explore a detailed analysis of William Blake's poem 'London', focusing on themes of power, conflict, and social inequality. This resource includes key annotations, contextual insights, and literary devices that highlight the struggles of the lower class in 18th-century London. Ideal for GCSE English Literature students preparing for exams.

English Lang.English Lang.
10

A Streetcar Named Desire Analysis

Explore the complex themes of 'A Streetcar Named Desire' by Tennessee Williams, including class conflict, gender dynamics, and the tragic decline of Blanche DuBois. This mind map delves into the interplay of sexual desire, societal expectations, and the impact of post-war America on relationships. Ideal for literature students seeking a deeper understanding of the play's characters and motifs.

English Lang.English Lang.
12

Macbeth Study Overview

Explore a comprehensive analysis of Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' with detailed summaries of each act, character insights, thematic explorations, and key quotations. This guide is essential for GCSE English students seeking to understand ambition, guilt, and the supernatural elements within the play.

English LanguageEnglish Language
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Exploring 'Late Love' Themes

Dive into Jackie Kay's poem 'Late Love' with this detailed analysis. This study note examines the contrasting portrayals of love and loneliness, the speaker's feelings of jealousy, and the societal perceptions of those in love versus those who are not. Ideal for GCSE English students preparing for unseen poetry analysis, this resource highlights key themes, poetic techniques, and emotional undertones present in the text.

English LanguageEnglish Language
10

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