Selfishness in An Inspector Calls: A central theme driving... Show more
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30 Dec 2025
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Selfishness in An Inspector Calls: Easy Analysis for Kids
paige gibbs
@paigegibbs_vuvr
1 / 4
Sheila's Journey from Selfishness to Self-Awareness
Sheila's character arc in "An Inspector Calls" demonstrates a transformation from selfishness to self-awareness. Initially portrayed as materialistic and naive, Sheila's actions reveal the harmful consequences of thoughtless behavior.
Quote: "I felt rotten about it at the time" - Sheila, expressing guilt after confronting her past actions.
Sheila's growth is evident as she acknowledges her mistakes and vows to change, stating, "I'll never, never do it again." Her character development serves as a contrast to other family members who struggle to recognize their faults.
Highlight: Sheila's transformation highlights the play's message about the importance of personal growth and social responsibility.
The chapter ends with Sheila's newfound maturity, emphasizing the need to put aside selfishness and consider the impact of one's actions on others.
Example: Sheila's response to Gerald, "I'll have a think," shows her new priority of evaluating how people treat others, demonstrating her growth beyond selfishness in An Inspector Calls.
Gerald's Selfish Motivations and Lack of Empathy
Gerald's character in "An Inspector Calls" exemplifies selfishness through his treatment of both Sheila and Eva Smith (Daisy Renton). His actions reveal a self-centered approach to relationships and a lack of genuine empathy.
Quote: "Don't say anything to Sheila" - Gerald, attempting to hide his affair from his fiancée.
Gerald's perception of his relationship with Eva as a "cry for help" demonstrates his self-aggrandizing view of his actions. He believes he rescued her, failing to recognize the true nature of their relationship and its inevitable end.
Highlight: Gerald's affair with Eva Smith showcases his selfish behavior in An Inspector Calls, as he disregards both Sheila's and Eva's feelings.
The play critiques Gerald's expectation of forgiveness without genuine remorse, highlighting the entitlement often associated with his social class.
Example: Gerald's description as a "well-bred young man about town" suggests he was aware of his actions' implications, yet chose to pursue his selfish desires.
Mrs. Birling and Eric: Contrasting Approaches to Selfishness
Mrs. Birling, described as "a rather cold woman," embodies a lack of empathy and understanding towards those less fortunate. Her character serves as a stark example of how class prejudice can fuel selfish behavior.
Quote: "Why shouldn't they try for higher wages?" - Mrs. Birling, dismissing the struggles of the working class.
In contrast, Eric's character shows a more complex relationship with selfishness. While his actions towards Eva Smith were undoubtedly selfish, he demonstrates a capacity for guilt and a desire for change.
Quote: "It frightens me the way you talk" - Eric to his parents, showing his growing awareness of their lack of empathy.
Eric's journey highlights the potential for redemption and the importance of acknowledging one's mistakes. His confrontation with his mother, stating "You killed them both," reveals his understanding of the far-reaching consequences of selfish actions.
Highlight: The contrast between Mrs. Birling's unyielding selfishness and Eric's growing awareness emphasizes the play's critique of selfish behavior in An Inspector Calls.
This final section of the play underscores the central message about the destructive nature of selfishness and the urgent need for social responsibility and empathy across all classes of society.
Selfishness as a Central Theme in An Inspector Calls
The play "An Inspector Calls" by J.B. Priestley uses selfishness as a key theme to drive the plot and character development. The story begins with an engagement party, where the lighting is described as "pink and intimate," setting a mood that allows characters to hide their true selves and remain detached from the plight of the poor.
Highlight: The intimate lighting at the start of the play symbolizes how the characters initially hide their selfish natures.
Mr. Birling, described as a "hard-headed practical man of business," embodies selfishness in his approach to workers and profits. His statement, "It's my job to keep labour costs down," reveals his prioritization of business interests over worker welfare.
Quote: "I can't accept any responsibility" - Mr. Birling, demonstrating his refusal to acknowledge his role in Eva Smith's fate.
The play explores how each character's selfish actions contributed to the downfall of Eva Smith, highlighting the need for social responsibility and empathy.
Example: Mr. Birling's decision to fire Eva Smith to keep wages low is a prime example of selfishness in An Inspector Calls.
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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
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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
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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
Selfishness in An Inspector Calls: Easy Analysis for Kids
paige gibbs
@paigegibbs_vuvr
Selfishness in An Inspector Calls: A central theme driving the plot and character development
- Explores how selfishness leads to disastrous consequences for all characters
- Highlights class divisions and lack of empathy towards the less fortunate
- Demonstrates how characters evolve... Show more
Sheila's Journey from Selfishness to Self-Awareness
Sheila's character arc in "An Inspector Calls" demonstrates a transformation from selfishness to self-awareness. Initially portrayed as materialistic and naive, Sheila's actions reveal the harmful consequences of thoughtless behavior.
Quote: "I felt rotten about it at the time" - Sheila, expressing guilt after confronting her past actions.
Sheila's growth is evident as she acknowledges her mistakes and vows to change, stating, "I'll never, never do it again." Her character development serves as a contrast to other family members who struggle to recognize their faults.
Highlight: Sheila's transformation highlights the play's message about the importance of personal growth and social responsibility.
The chapter ends with Sheila's newfound maturity, emphasizing the need to put aside selfishness and consider the impact of one's actions on others.
Example: Sheila's response to Gerald, "I'll have a think," shows her new priority of evaluating how people treat others, demonstrating her growth beyond selfishness in An Inspector Calls.
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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
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Gerald's Selfish Motivations and Lack of Empathy
Gerald's character in "An Inspector Calls" exemplifies selfishness through his treatment of both Sheila and Eva Smith (Daisy Renton). His actions reveal a self-centered approach to relationships and a lack of genuine empathy.
Quote: "Don't say anything to Sheila" - Gerald, attempting to hide his affair from his fiancée.
Gerald's perception of his relationship with Eva as a "cry for help" demonstrates his self-aggrandizing view of his actions. He believes he rescued her, failing to recognize the true nature of their relationship and its inevitable end.
Highlight: Gerald's affair with Eva Smith showcases his selfish behavior in An Inspector Calls, as he disregards both Sheila's and Eva's feelings.
The play critiques Gerald's expectation of forgiveness without genuine remorse, highlighting the entitlement often associated with his social class.
Example: Gerald's description as a "well-bred young man about town" suggests he was aware of his actions' implications, yet chose to pursue his selfish desires.
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
Mrs. Birling and Eric: Contrasting Approaches to Selfishness
Mrs. Birling, described as "a rather cold woman," embodies a lack of empathy and understanding towards those less fortunate. Her character serves as a stark example of how class prejudice can fuel selfish behavior.
Quote: "Why shouldn't they try for higher wages?" - Mrs. Birling, dismissing the struggles of the working class.
In contrast, Eric's character shows a more complex relationship with selfishness. While his actions towards Eva Smith were undoubtedly selfish, he demonstrates a capacity for guilt and a desire for change.
Quote: "It frightens me the way you talk" - Eric to his parents, showing his growing awareness of their lack of empathy.
Eric's journey highlights the potential for redemption and the importance of acknowledging one's mistakes. His confrontation with his mother, stating "You killed them both," reveals his understanding of the far-reaching consequences of selfish actions.
Highlight: The contrast between Mrs. Birling's unyielding selfishness and Eric's growing awareness emphasizes the play's critique of selfish behavior in An Inspector Calls.
This final section of the play underscores the central message about the destructive nature of selfishness and the urgent need for social responsibility and empathy across all classes of society.
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
Selfishness as a Central Theme in An Inspector Calls
The play "An Inspector Calls" by J.B. Priestley uses selfishness as a key theme to drive the plot and character development. The story begins with an engagement party, where the lighting is described as "pink and intimate," setting a mood that allows characters to hide their true selves and remain detached from the plight of the poor.
Highlight: The intimate lighting at the start of the play symbolizes how the characters initially hide their selfish natures.
Mr. Birling, described as a "hard-headed practical man of business," embodies selfishness in his approach to workers and profits. His statement, "It's my job to keep labour costs down," reveals his prioritization of business interests over worker welfare.
Quote: "I can't accept any responsibility" - Mr. Birling, demonstrating his refusal to acknowledge his role in Eva Smith's fate.
The play explores how each character's selfish actions contributed to the downfall of Eva Smith, highlighting the need for social responsibility and empathy.
Example: Mr. Birling's decision to fire Eva Smith to keep wages low is a prime example of selfishness in An Inspector Calls.
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
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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