Inspector Goole serves as a mysterious and powerful force for social justice. His rejection of alcohol symbolizes his moral integrity and commitment to duty.

Quote: "we are members of one body" - emphasizing collective responsibility

Highlight: The Inspector functions as Priestley's mouthpiece for socialist ideals

Vocabulary: Omniscient - all-knowing, reflecting the Inspector's supernatural qualities

Eva Smith represents universal oppression and the victims of social inequality. Her name carries deep symbolic meaning within the play's context.

Definition: Nomenclature - the system of names and their significance

Highlight: The surname "Smith" being common represents all of humanity

Example: Eva's name change to Daisy represents her desperate attempt for a fresh start

Edna's character reinforces the play's commentary on class divisions and social hierarchy through her interactions with the Birling family.

Quote: "yes maison" and "yes sir" - demonstrating subservient behavior

Highlight: The similarity between Eva and Edna's names symbolizes their shared social status

Definition: Supercity - excessive politeness often displayed by servants to their employers

Eric undergoes significant transformation throughout the play, representing hope for generational change.

Quote: "Why shouldn't they try for higher wages?" - showing developing social consciousness

Highlight: His relationship with alcohol reveals the effects of poor parenting

Vocabulary: Metamorphosis - complete transformation, describing Eric's character development

Sheila represents the potential for positive change in the younger generation, showing genuine remorse and understanding.

Quote: "these girls aren't cheap labor - they're people" - demonstrating moral growth

Definition: Ingenue - an innocent or unsophisticated young woman

Highlight: Her character arc shows the possibility of breaking free from class prejudices

Mrs. Birling exemplifies the worst aspects of upper-class prejudice and moral blindness.

Quote: "I think I was justified" - showing her unremorseful nature

Highlight: Her treatment of Eva reveals class prejudice despite her charitable work

Definition: Repugnance - strong dislike or aversion

Gerald represents a middle ground between generations but ultimately aligns with the old guard's values.

Quote: "I knew it couldn't last" - revealing his casual attitude toward Eva

Highlight: His treatment of Eva as an object reveals ingrained class prejudices

Vocabulary: Ambivalent - having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas

Mr. Birling embodies the capitalist upper class, characterized by his arrogance and materialism. His physical description as a "heavy looking rather pretentious man" mirrors his inflated sense of self-importance.

Quote: "unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable" - referring to the Titanic, demonstrating dramatic irony

Highlight: His denial of responsibility and attempt to intimidate the Inspector reveals his moral bankruptcy

Definition: Capitalist - Someone who believes in private ownership and profit-driven business practices