J.B. Priestley packed "An Inspector Calls" with powerful symbols that... Show more
English Language191 views·Updated May 23, 2026·2 pagesExploring Symbolism in 'An Inspector Calls'
Ender@justend1ng
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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.
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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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English Language191 views·Updated May 23, 2026·2 pagesExploring Symbolism in 'An Inspector Calls'
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.
1
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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.
2
of 2Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
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.
Similar content
Most popular content: An Inspector Calls
9Most popular content in English Language
9Most popular content
9Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google 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 SiOS 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 KlichAndroid 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.
AnnaiOS user