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An Inspector Calls - Gender Roles and Quotes Essay for Grade 9

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Annabel

17/05/2023

English Literature

AIC GENDER GRADE 9 ESSAY

2,464

17 May 2023

2 pages

An Inspector Calls - Gender Roles and Quotes Essay for Grade 9

user profile picture

Annabel

@annabel_xo

J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" explores gender dynamics in Edwardian... Show more

Annabel Johnson
An Inspector Calls Essay
How is the theme of gender presented in "An Inspector Calls"?
Priestley explores the theme of gende

Gender Roles and Societal Expectations

In Act Two, Priestley further explores the theme of gender inequality in An Inspector Calls, particularly through the interactions between Sheila, Gerald, and the Inspector. The playwright continues to develop Sheila's character, showing her growing confidence and assertiveness in the face of traditional gender expectations.

Quote: Gerald states, "Why should you stay? It's bound to be unpleasant and disturbing," to which Sheila firmly responds, "I'm staying."

This exchange highlights the prevailing attitude that women should be shielded from unpleasant truths, a notion that Sheila actively rejects. The Inspector's pointed question about protecting young women from disturbing things further emphasizes this theme.

Highlight: The Inspector asks, "And you think young women ought to be protected against unpleasant and disturbing things?" Gerald's affirmative response underscores the patronizing attitudes towards women prevalent in Edwardian society.

Priestley uses these interactions to critique the gender roles in 1912 An Inspector Calls, showing how such attitudes infantilized women and limited their personal growth and societal contributions.

As the play reaches its conclusion, Sheila's character arc comes full circle. Her ability to denounce her family's actions demonstrates her moral and social development.

Quote: Sheila states, "Between us we drove that girl to suicide," showing her acceptance of collective responsibility.

However, Priestley also hints at the challenges of overcoming ingrained societal norms. Despite her growth, Sheila considers reconciling with Gerald, suggesting the difficulty of fully breaking free from traditional gender roles and expectations.

Example: When Gerald asks about the ring, Sheila replies that "it is too soon, she must think," indicating her internal struggle between her newfound independence and societal pressures.

Through these character developments and interactions, Priestley presents a nuanced view of gender dynamics in early 20th century England. He advocates for women's empowerment while acknowledging the deeply rooted nature of gender inequality and the ongoing struggle for social change.

Annabel Johnson
An Inspector Calls Essay
How is the theme of gender presented in "An Inspector Calls"?
Priestley explores the theme of gende

Gender Dynamics in Act 1

In the opening act of "An Inspector Calls," J.B. Priestley establishes the stark gender dynamics of Edwardian England. The character of Sheila Birling is initially portrayed as childlike and submissive, reflecting the societal expectations placed on women of her class during this era.

Quote: Sheila uses words such as "mummy" and responds to her father saying that she's "sorry daddy".

This infantilization of adult women is further emphasized when Mr. Birling tells Sheila to "run along," using language typically reserved for children. Priestley employs these interactions to highlight the lack of autonomy afforded to women, even those from privileged backgrounds.

Highlight: The verb "run" has connotations to a child despite Sheila being a grown adult, illustrating how women were expected to behave like children and be obedient to men because of their gender.

As the play progresses, Sheila's character begins to evolve, particularly when confronted with her role in Eva Smith's suicide. This transformation serves as a metaphor for the broader societal changes occurring during this period, including the women's suffrage movement.

Example: Sheila asks if she is "really to blame?", marking the beginning of her awakening to social responsibility and her own agency.

Priestley juxtaposes Sheila's growing awareness with Gerald's reluctance to change, exemplifying the resistance of privileged men to social progress. This contrast is evident in their differing reactions to the Inspector's revelations.

Quote: Sheila says, "You gave yourself away as soon as he mentioned her other name," to which Gerald replies, "All right. I knew her. Let's leave it at that."

This exchange underscores the emerging perceptiveness of women like Sheila and the defensive posture adopted by men like Gerald when confronted with their misdeeds.



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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.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

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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

 

English Literature

2,464

17 May 2023

2 pages

An Inspector Calls - Gender Roles and Quotes Essay for Grade 9

user profile picture

Annabel

@annabel_xo

J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" explores gender dynamics in Edwardian England, highlighting the stark differences between men and women, particularly in the upper classes. The play uses characters like Sheila Birling and Gerald Croft to illustrate the evolving role of... Show more

Annabel Johnson
An Inspector Calls Essay
How is the theme of gender presented in "An Inspector Calls"?
Priestley explores the theme of gende

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

Gender Roles and Societal Expectations

In Act Two, Priestley further explores the theme of gender inequality in An Inspector Calls, particularly through the interactions between Sheila, Gerald, and the Inspector. The playwright continues to develop Sheila's character, showing her growing confidence and assertiveness in the face of traditional gender expectations.

Quote: Gerald states, "Why should you stay? It's bound to be unpleasant and disturbing," to which Sheila firmly responds, "I'm staying."

This exchange highlights the prevailing attitude that women should be shielded from unpleasant truths, a notion that Sheila actively rejects. The Inspector's pointed question about protecting young women from disturbing things further emphasizes this theme.

Highlight: The Inspector asks, "And you think young women ought to be protected against unpleasant and disturbing things?" Gerald's affirmative response underscores the patronizing attitudes towards women prevalent in Edwardian society.

Priestley uses these interactions to critique the gender roles in 1912 An Inspector Calls, showing how such attitudes infantilized women and limited their personal growth and societal contributions.

As the play reaches its conclusion, Sheila's character arc comes full circle. Her ability to denounce her family's actions demonstrates her moral and social development.

Quote: Sheila states, "Between us we drove that girl to suicide," showing her acceptance of collective responsibility.

However, Priestley also hints at the challenges of overcoming ingrained societal norms. Despite her growth, Sheila considers reconciling with Gerald, suggesting the difficulty of fully breaking free from traditional gender roles and expectations.

Example: When Gerald asks about the ring, Sheila replies that "it is too soon, she must think," indicating her internal struggle between her newfound independence and societal pressures.

Through these character developments and interactions, Priestley presents a nuanced view of gender dynamics in early 20th century England. He advocates for women's empowerment while acknowledging the deeply rooted nature of gender inequality and the ongoing struggle for social change.

Annabel Johnson
An Inspector Calls Essay
How is the theme of gender presented in "An Inspector Calls"?
Priestley explores the theme of gende

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

Gender Dynamics in Act 1

In the opening act of "An Inspector Calls," J.B. Priestley establishes the stark gender dynamics of Edwardian England. The character of Sheila Birling is initially portrayed as childlike and submissive, reflecting the societal expectations placed on women of her class during this era.

Quote: Sheila uses words such as "mummy" and responds to her father saying that she's "sorry daddy".

This infantilization of adult women is further emphasized when Mr. Birling tells Sheila to "run along," using language typically reserved for children. Priestley employs these interactions to highlight the lack of autonomy afforded to women, even those from privileged backgrounds.

Highlight: The verb "run" has connotations to a child despite Sheila being a grown adult, illustrating how women were expected to behave like children and be obedient to men because of their gender.

As the play progresses, Sheila's character begins to evolve, particularly when confronted with her role in Eva Smith's suicide. This transformation serves as a metaphor for the broader societal changes occurring during this period, including the women's suffrage movement.

Example: Sheila asks if she is "really to blame?", marking the beginning of her awakening to social responsibility and her own agency.

Priestley juxtaposes Sheila's growing awareness with Gerald's reluctance to change, exemplifying the resistance of privileged men to social progress. This contrast is evident in their differing reactions to the Inspector's revelations.

Quote: Sheila says, "You gave yourself away as soon as he mentioned her other name," to which Gerald replies, "All right. I knew her. Let's leave it at that."

This exchange underscores the emerging perceptiveness of women like Sheila and the defensive posture adopted by men like Gerald when confronted with their misdeeds.

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.

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