The theme of generation gap in "An Inspector Calls" is... Show more
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17 May 2023
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Exploring Generations and Socialism in 'An Inspector Calls'
Annabel
@annabel_xo
Mrs. Birling's Role and Symbolism
Mrs. Birling plays a crucial role in Eva's demise, emphasizing the need to heed the Inspector's message:
- Her placement last in the order of events suggests she bears the most blame.
- Her refusal to accept responsibility is shown through short, declarative phrases.
Quote: "I don't believe it" and "I won't believe it"
Priestley uses Mrs. Birling's character to:
- Infuriate the audience with her unwillingness to change.
- Illustrate the concept of being "wilfully blind" to the situation.
Definition: Wilfully blind - Intentionally refusing to acknowledge or accept a truth or fact.
The essay suggests a possible symbolic connection between Mrs. Birling's name "Sybil" and 'The Sibyls' from Greek mythology:
- This connection may add depth to her character's role in the play.
- It could imply a prophetic or oracular aspect to her character.
Vocabulary: Sibyls - In Greek mythology, Sibyls were women believed to possess prophetic powers.
The analysis of Mrs. Birling's character reinforces the theme of generation gap and highlights the stark contrast between the older and younger generations in "An Inspector Calls".
Generation Gap in "An Inspector Calls"
The essay examines how J.B. Priestley presents the theme of generation gap in "An Inspector Calls" through the Birling family. The contrast between the older generation and the younger generation is evident in their attitudes and character development throughout the play.
Highlight: Priestley uses the generation gap to show how the younger generation is more easily influenced and offers hope for the future.
The arrival of the Inspector accentuates the divide between generations:
- Eric questions his father's capitalist views, advocating for higher wages.
- Sheila adopts a socialist mindset and becomes receptive to the Inspector's message.
Quote: "Eric shows signs of discordance with his father, questioning why with 'higher prices', 'higher wages' should not be given."
Priestley portrays the younger generation positively:
- Eric acts as Priestley's proxy, challenging capitalist thinking.
- Sheila is presented as an exemplar for ideological transformation.
Example: Sheila's physical movement towards the Inspector symbolizes her ideological shift towards socialism.
The play's context is significant:
- Written and performed in 1945, promoting socialist ideals.
- Aimed to influence the audience to vote for the Labour Party.
Vocabulary: Antithesis - A rhetorical device using opposite ideas in a sentence to create contrast.
The older generation, represented by Mr. and Mrs. Birling, stands in direct antithesis to Sheila and Eric:
- They maintain traditional classist attitudes.
- Both refuse to help Eva Smith, demonstrating selfishness and flawed character.
Quote: "Mr Birling earlier 'refused' to give Eva a pay rise she desired, and the verb 'refused' is echoed when Mrs Birling justifies her actions of denying Eva financial support."
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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
Exploring Generations and Socialism in 'An Inspector Calls'
Annabel
@annabel_xo
The theme of generation gap in "An Inspector Calls" is explored through the contrasting attitudes and behaviors of the older and younger Birling family members. This divide becomes more pronounced as the play progresses, highlighting the potential for social change... Show more
Mrs. Birling's Role and Symbolism
Mrs. Birling plays a crucial role in Eva's demise, emphasizing the need to heed the Inspector's message:
- Her placement last in the order of events suggests she bears the most blame.
- Her refusal to accept responsibility is shown through short, declarative phrases.
Quote: "I don't believe it" and "I won't believe it"
Priestley uses Mrs. Birling's character to:
- Infuriate the audience with her unwillingness to change.
- Illustrate the concept of being "wilfully blind" to the situation.
Definition: Wilfully blind - Intentionally refusing to acknowledge or accept a truth or fact.
The essay suggests a possible symbolic connection between Mrs. Birling's name "Sybil" and 'The Sibyls' from Greek mythology:
- This connection may add depth to her character's role in the play.
- It could imply a prophetic or oracular aspect to her character.
Vocabulary: Sibyls - In Greek mythology, Sibyls were women believed to possess prophetic powers.
The analysis of Mrs. Birling's character reinforces the theme of generation gap and highlights the stark contrast between the older and younger generations in "An Inspector Calls".
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
Generation Gap in "An Inspector Calls"
The essay examines how J.B. Priestley presents the theme of generation gap in "An Inspector Calls" through the Birling family. The contrast between the older generation and the younger generation is evident in their attitudes and character development throughout the play.
Highlight: Priestley uses the generation gap to show how the younger generation is more easily influenced and offers hope for the future.
The arrival of the Inspector accentuates the divide between generations:
- Eric questions his father's capitalist views, advocating for higher wages.
- Sheila adopts a socialist mindset and becomes receptive to the Inspector's message.
Quote: "Eric shows signs of discordance with his father, questioning why with 'higher prices', 'higher wages' should not be given."
Priestley portrays the younger generation positively:
- Eric acts as Priestley's proxy, challenging capitalist thinking.
- Sheila is presented as an exemplar for ideological transformation.
Example: Sheila's physical movement towards the Inspector symbolizes her ideological shift towards socialism.
The play's context is significant:
- Written and performed in 1945, promoting socialist ideals.
- Aimed to influence the audience to vote for the Labour Party.
Vocabulary: Antithesis - A rhetorical device using opposite ideas in a sentence to create contrast.
The older generation, represented by Mr. and Mrs. Birling, stands in direct antithesis to Sheila and Eric:
- They maintain traditional classist attitudes.
- Both refuse to help Eva Smith, demonstrating selfishness and flawed character.
Quote: "Mr Birling earlier 'refused' to give Eva a pay rise she desired, and the verb 'refused' is echoed when Mrs Birling justifies her actions of denying Eva financial support."
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