Act Two: Gerald's Limited Acknowledgment
In Act Two, Gerald's questioning reveals a more complex relationship with responsibility. While he initially shows some remorse for Eva's death, saying he's "suddenly realised-taken it in properly-that she's dead," he quickly justifies his actions by claiming "nearly any man would have done" the same.
This justification demonstrates how upper-class men often avoided taking responsibility for their actions, particularly when it involved lower-class women. Priestley uses this to highlight the self-obsessed nature of capitalist society and its preoccupation with avoiding scandal.
Quote: "Nearly any man would have done."
Highlight: Gerald's character illustrates how the upper class often rationalized their behavior to avoid taking responsibility, a trait Priestley associates with capitalist values.
Mrs. Birling's Denial of Responsibility
The questioning of Sybil Birling reveals her complete denial of responsibility. Her refusal to look at Eva's photo and her statement that she "accepts no blame for this at all" showcase her lack of empathy and social responsibility.
The Inspector's response that even "public men... have responsibilities" serves as Priestley's message that social status does not exempt one from moral obligations.
Quote: "Naturally, I accept no blame for this at all."
Highlight: Mrs. Birling's character represents the extreme end of capitalist indifference, refusing to acknowledge any responsibility even when directly confronted.
The Inspector's Message of Collective Responsibility
The Inspector's final message emphasizes the theme of collective responsibility. He states that the family will be able to "divide the responsibility" and that "each of you helped kill her." This reinforces Priestley's central idea that we are "all members of one body" and our actions affect each other.
Quote: "We are all members of one body."
Highlight: This statement aligns with Christian teachings, appealing to Priestley's largely Christian audience while promoting socialist ideals of collective responsibility.
Conclusion: Priestley's Critique of Capitalism
Through the portrayal of responsibility in "An Inspector Calls," Priestley encourages his audience to question the behavior of characters like Sybil, Arthur, and Gerald, who represent capitalist values. Their reluctance to accept social responsibility for Eva's death serves as a critique of capitalist society.
Highlight: Priestley uses the theme of responsibility to advocate for a socialist future, urging his 1945 audience to break the cycle of capitalist indifference and embrace collective responsibility.
