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22 Dec 2025

3 pages

Complete Study Guide: Character Mindmaps from An Inspector Calls

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sophie

@sophierobinson

J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" follows the character developmentof... Show more

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ACT 1

`pretty girl`'

`yes go on
Mummy`'

`You're squiffy`

`the child`'

`00 I'm really.
responsible?`

`she was the right type for
it jus

Sheila Birling's Transformation

Sheila begins as a superficial, materialistic young woman who's more concerned with her appearance than social issues. When she discovers her role in Eva Smith's dismissal from Milwards, she immediately accepts responsibility and shows genuine remorse.

Her character development is the most complete of all the characters. She evolves from naive and childish to socially conscious and morally aware. By Act 3, she's desperately trying to prevent her family from returning to their old ways.

Key insight: Sheila represents hope for social change. Her willingness to learn and grow contrasts sharply with her parents' stubborn refusal to change.

Remember: Sheila's transformation shows that the younger generation can break free from their elders' prejudices and embrace social responsibility.

ACT 1

`pretty girl`'

`yes go on
Mummy`'

`You're squiffy`

`the child`'

`00 I'm really.
responsible?`

`she was the right type for
it jus

Eric Birling's Journey

Eric starts as an immature, secretive young man who drinks too much and feels disconnected from his family. His involvement with Eva Smith reveals his capacity for both cruelty and compassion - he forced himself on her but also tried to help financially.

Unlike Gerald, Eric shows genuine remorse for his actions and accepts his social responsibility. His socialist leanings become more apparent as the play progresses, and he openly challenges his father's capitalist values.

His relationship with his parents deteriorates completely by the end. Eric recognises that his father isn't someone he can turn to in times of trouble, highlighting the generational conflict at the play's core.

Key point: Eric's character shows how social privilege can corrupt, but also how genuine remorse can lead to positive change.

ACT 1

`pretty girl`'

`yes go on
Mummy`'

`You're squiffy`

`the child`'

`00 I'm really.
responsible?`

`she was the right type for
it jus

Gerald Croft's Complex Role

Gerald appears to be the perfect aristocratic gentleman - well-mannered, charming, and from the right social class. However, his relationship with Eva Smith reveals his true character beneath this polished surface.

Initially, Gerald seems altruistic when he helps Eva, but his motivations are primarily selfish. He enjoys the power dynamic of being her protector and provider, making her his mistress rather than truly helping her situation.

Unlike Sheila and Eric, Gerald doesn't experience genuine character development. By Act 3, he's more concerned with proving the Inspector was fake than learning from the experience, showing he hasn't grasped the importance of social responsibility.

Critical analysis: Gerald represents the older generation's values in a younger person - he's resistant to change and more concerned with maintaining his social position than examining his conscience.



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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

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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

217

22 Dec 2025

3 pages

Complete Study Guide: Character Mindmaps from An Inspector Calls

user profile picture

sophie

@sophierobinson

J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" follows the character development of three younger generation characters who undergo dramatic transformations when confronted with their social responsibility. Their journeys from ignorance to awareness form the heart of this powerful social drama.

ACT 1

`pretty girl`'

`yes go on
Mummy`'

`You're squiffy`

`the child`'

`00 I'm really.
responsible?`

`she was the right type for
it jus

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

Sheila Birling's Transformation

Sheila begins as a superficial, materialistic young woman who's more concerned with her appearance than social issues. When she discovers her role in Eva Smith's dismissal from Milwards, she immediately accepts responsibility and shows genuine remorse.

Her character development is the most complete of all the characters. She evolves from naive and childish to socially conscious and morally aware. By Act 3, she's desperately trying to prevent her family from returning to their old ways.

Key insight: Sheila represents hope for social change. Her willingness to learn and grow contrasts sharply with her parents' stubborn refusal to change.

Remember: Sheila's transformation shows that the younger generation can break free from their elders' prejudices and embrace social responsibility.

ACT 1

`pretty girl`'

`yes go on
Mummy`'

`You're squiffy`

`the child`'

`00 I'm really.
responsible?`

`she was the right type for
it jus

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

Eric Birling's Journey

Eric starts as an immature, secretive young man who drinks too much and feels disconnected from his family. His involvement with Eva Smith reveals his capacity for both cruelty and compassion - he forced himself on her but also tried to help financially.

Unlike Gerald, Eric shows genuine remorse for his actions and accepts his social responsibility. His socialist leanings become more apparent as the play progresses, and he openly challenges his father's capitalist values.

His relationship with his parents deteriorates completely by the end. Eric recognises that his father isn't someone he can turn to in times of trouble, highlighting the generational conflict at the play's core.

Key point: Eric's character shows how social privilege can corrupt, but also how genuine remorse can lead to positive change.

ACT 1

`pretty girl`'

`yes go on
Mummy`'

`You're squiffy`

`the child`'

`00 I'm really.
responsible?`

`she was the right type for
it jus

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

Gerald Croft's Complex Role

Gerald appears to be the perfect aristocratic gentleman - well-mannered, charming, and from the right social class. However, his relationship with Eva Smith reveals his true character beneath this polished surface.

Initially, Gerald seems altruistic when he helps Eva, but his motivations are primarily selfish. He enjoys the power dynamic of being her protector and provider, making her his mistress rather than truly helping her situation.

Unlike Sheila and Eric, Gerald doesn't experience genuine character development. By Act 3, he's more concerned with proving the Inspector was fake than learning from the experience, showing he hasn't grasped the importance of social responsibility.

Critical analysis: Gerald represents the older generation's values in a younger person - he's resistant to change and more concerned with maintaining his social position than examining his conscience.

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.

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Most popular content: An Inspector Calls

Most popular content in English Literature

Most popular content

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