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3 Oct 2025

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An Inspector Calls: Themes, Context, Social Class, and Gender Notes PDF

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Francesca๐ŸŽง @francescastevens_pgeb

An Inspector Calls: Context and Themes Study Guide

J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" is a powerful exploration of ... Show more

Context
J.B Priestley
โ— Well known socialist
Fought in WW1
His radio broadcast supported the Labour party
Edwardian Society
Strong class sys

Key Themes in "An Inspector Calls"

"An Inspector Calls" explores several interconnected themes that reflect the societal issues of both 1912 and 1945. Understanding these themes is crucial for analyzing the play's message and character development.

Responsibility

Highlight Social responsibility in An Inspector Calls is a central theme, reflecting Priestley's belief that people should be accountable for their actions and care for others' welfare.

Priestley emphasizes the importance of social responsibility, particularly in the context of post-World War II Britain. He argues that

  • Individual actions have far-reaching consequences
  • Society improves when people consider the welfare of others
  • The wealthy have a particular obligation to help those less fortunate

Quote "We don't live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other." - Inspector Goole

Age and Generation Gap

Priestley uses the generational divide to illustrate the potential for social change

  • Older characters (Mr. and Mrs. Birling) represent fixed, outdated views
  • Younger characters (Eric and Sheila) show the capacity to learn and change
  • This contrast highlights the hope Priestley placed in the younger generation to create a more equitable society

Gender Roles

Highlight Gender in An Inspector Calls reflects the changing perceptions of women's roles in society, particularly after World War II.

The play explores evolving gender dynamics

  • Eva Smith represents the emerging independence of working women
  • Mr. Birling's attitudes reflect outdated, sexist views
  • Sheila's character development shows the potential for women to challenge traditional roles

Example During World War II, women took on traditionally male jobs, leading to a shift in perceptions of women's capabilities and rights.

Class Divide

Highlight Social class in An Inspector Calls is a key theme, highlighting the inequality and injustice inherent in the rigid class system of Edwardian England.

Priestley critiques the class system through

  • The contrast between the wealthy Birlings and the working-class Eva Smith
  • The characters' differing attitudes towards social responsibility based on their class
  • The Inspector's role in exposing the consequences of class-based prejudice and exploitation

Quote "Girls of that class..." - Mrs. Birling, revealing her class prejudice

These themes interweave throughout the play, challenging the audience to reflect on their own society and personal responsibilities.

Context
J.B Priestley
โ— Well known socialist
Fought in WW1
His radio broadcast supported the Labour party
Edwardian Society
Strong class sys

Context and Historical Background

J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" is deeply rooted in its historical context, bridging the gap between Edwardian England and post-World War II Britain. This section explores the key factors that influenced the play's themes and message.

Highlight J.B. Priestley was a well-known socialist who fought in World War I and supported the Labour Party through his radio broadcasts.

The play is set in 1912, a time characterized by

  • A strong class system with a significant divide between rich and poor
  • No welfare state to support the disadvantaged
  • A conservative, capitalist, and classist society
  • Pre-World War era with looming social unrest

However, Priestley wrote the play in 1945, after both World Wars had brought about substantial social changes

  • Class systems became less divided
  • Society shifted towards a more socialist outlook
  • The Labour Party won a landslide victory
  • Women gained the right to vote

Definition Social class in this context refers to the division of people based on their social and economic status. The upper class typically held titles like 'lord' or 'sir', the middle class owned businesses or were educated professionals, and the working class worked for others.

Example The suffragette movement fought for women's voting rights, which were partially granted in 1918 (for women over 30 who owned property) and fully extended to all women in 1928.

These historical elements provide crucial context for understanding the play's themes and Priestley's critique of Edwardian society.

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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 didnโ€™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 Iโ€™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 ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

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 itโ€™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

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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 didnโ€™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 Iโ€™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 ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

Elisha

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Paul T

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English Literature

3 Oct 2025

313

2 pages

An Inspector Calls: Themes, Context, Social Class, and Gender Notes PDF

user profile picture

Francesca๐ŸŽง @francescastevens_pgeb

An Inspector Calls: Context and Themes Study Guide

J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" is a powerful exploration of social class and responsibilityset against the backdrop of Edwardian England. This... Show more

Context
J.B Priestley
โ— Well known socialist
Fought in WW1
His radio broadcast supported the Labour party
Edwardian Society
Strong class sys

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Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Key Themes in "An Inspector Calls"

"An Inspector Calls" explores several interconnected themes that reflect the societal issues of both 1912 and 1945. Understanding these themes is crucial for analyzing the play's message and character development.

Responsibility

Highlight Social responsibility in An Inspector Calls is a central theme, reflecting Priestley's belief that people should be accountable for their actions and care for others' welfare.

Priestley emphasizes the importance of social responsibility, particularly in the context of post-World War II Britain. He argues that

  • Individual actions have far-reaching consequences
  • Society improves when people consider the welfare of others
  • The wealthy have a particular obligation to help those less fortunate

Quote "We don't live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other." - Inspector Goole

Age and Generation Gap

Priestley uses the generational divide to illustrate the potential for social change

  • Older characters (Mr. and Mrs. Birling) represent fixed, outdated views
  • Younger characters (Eric and Sheila) show the capacity to learn and change
  • This contrast highlights the hope Priestley placed in the younger generation to create a more equitable society

Gender Roles

Highlight Gender in An Inspector Calls reflects the changing perceptions of women's roles in society, particularly after World War II.

The play explores evolving gender dynamics

  • Eva Smith represents the emerging independence of working women
  • Mr. Birling's attitudes reflect outdated, sexist views
  • Sheila's character development shows the potential for women to challenge traditional roles

Example During World War II, women took on traditionally male jobs, leading to a shift in perceptions of women's capabilities and rights.

Class Divide

Highlight Social class in An Inspector Calls is a key theme, highlighting the inequality and injustice inherent in the rigid class system of Edwardian England.

Priestley critiques the class system through

  • The contrast between the wealthy Birlings and the working-class Eva Smith
  • The characters' differing attitudes towards social responsibility based on their class
  • The Inspector's role in exposing the consequences of class-based prejudice and exploitation

Quote "Girls of that class..." - Mrs. Birling, revealing her class prejudice

These themes interweave throughout the play, challenging the audience to reflect on their own society and personal responsibilities.

Context
J.B Priestley
โ— Well known socialist
Fought in WW1
His radio broadcast supported the Labour party
Edwardian Society
Strong class sys

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

Context and Historical Background

J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" is deeply rooted in its historical context, bridging the gap between Edwardian England and post-World War II Britain. This section explores the key factors that influenced the play's themes and message.

Highlight J.B. Priestley was a well-known socialist who fought in World War I and supported the Labour Party through his radio broadcasts.

The play is set in 1912, a time characterized by

  • A strong class system with a significant divide between rich and poor
  • No welfare state to support the disadvantaged
  • A conservative, capitalist, and classist society
  • Pre-World War era with looming social unrest

However, Priestley wrote the play in 1945, after both World Wars had brought about substantial social changes

  • Class systems became less divided
  • Society shifted towards a more socialist outlook
  • The Labour Party won a landslide victory
  • Women gained the right to vote

Definition Social class in this context refers to the division of people based on their social and economic status. The upper class typically held titles like 'lord' or 'sir', the middle class owned businesses or were educated professionals, and the working class worked for others.

Example The suffragette movement fought for women's voting rights, which were partially granted in 1918 (for women over 30 who owned property) and fully extended to all women in 1928.

These historical elements provide crucial context for understanding the play's themes and Priestley's critique of Edwardian society.

We thought youโ€™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 โ€“ all at your fingertips.

4

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: โœ“ 50+ Practice Questions โœ“ Interactive Flashcards โœ“ Full Mock Exam โœ“ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Character Insights: An Inspector Calls

Explore in-depth character analyses and key quotes from J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This summary highlights the complexities of characters like Eva Smith, Sheila Birling, and Inspector Goole, while examining themes of social responsibility, class disparity, and moral hypocrisy. Ideal for students seeking to understand the play's critical messages and character dynamics.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
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Blood Brothers Character Insights

Explore key character quotes from 'Blood Brothers' focusing on Mrs. Johnstone and Mrs. Lyons. This analysis highlights their development, class struggles, and the impact of fate and superstition on their lives. Ideal for students studying character dynamics and themes in drama.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
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Gothic Literature Techniques

Explore essential techniques in Gothic literature, including the use of unreliable narrators, atmospheric settings, and methods to build suspense and tension. This summary covers key conventions such as fragmented sentences, dark settings, and character archetypes, providing insights for students studying Gothic fiction.

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Belfast Confetti Analysis

Explore the intricate themes and symbolism in 'Belfast Confetti' by Ciaran Carson. This analysis delves into the impact of The Troubles on communication and identity, highlighting the use of punctuation as a metaphor for violence and confusion. Key concepts include the historical context of Northern Ireland, the role of language in conflict, and the lasting effects of the Good Friday Agreement. Ideal for students studying modern poetry and Irish history.

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10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us โ€” 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 itโ€™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 didnโ€™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 Iโ€™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 ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

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 itโ€™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 didnโ€™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 Iโ€™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 ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

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