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 (Sybil and Arthur) and the younger generation (Sheila and Eric) 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:

1. Eric questions his father's capitalist views, advocating for higher wages.
2. 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."

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:

1. Her placement last in the order of events suggests she bears the most blame.
2. 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".