The Impact of Dramatic Devices and Symbolism
Priestley employs various dramatic devices in An Inspector Calls to convey his message about social responsibility and the need for change. One of the most striking examples is the use of lighting to symbolize the shift in mood and perspective.
Highlight: The stage lighting changes from "pink and intimate" to "brighter and harder" upon Inspector Goole's entrance.
This change in lighting serves multiple purposes:
- It symbolizes the harsh reality being exposed by the Inspector's investigation.
- It represents the characters' uncomfortable confrontation with their past actions.
- It emphasizes the contrast between the Birlings' comfortable, insulated world and the harsh realities faced by those less fortunate.
Definition: Symbolism - the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.
The symbolism in An Inspector Calls extends beyond just lighting. The character of Eva Smith, though never seen on stage, symbolizes the working class and the victims of capitalist exploitation. Her story serves as a powerful indictment of the social system that allows such injustices to occur.
Priestley also uses language techniques in An Inspector Calls to reinforce his themes:
- Repetition: Mr. Birling's repeated use of "I" emphasizes his self-centeredness.
- Plosive sounds: The repetitive "t" sounds in Mr. Birling's speech mimic spitting, suggesting his feeling of superiority.
- Command words: Mr. Birling's use of imperatives like "listen to what I'm telling you" underscores his authoritarian attitude.
These techniques contribute to the characterization of Mr. Birling as a representation of the flawed capitalist system that Priestley critiques.
Quote: "The Titanic is unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable." - Mr. Birling
This quote not only demonstrates dramatic irony but also serves as a metaphor for the perceived invincibility of the capitalist system, which Priestley suggests is just as vulnerable to catastrophic failure.
Through these various dramatic devices examples, Priestley creates a powerful critique of Edwardian society and suggests that improvement can come through greater empathy, social responsibility, and a willingness to challenge established power structures.
