Themes and Quotes from An Inspector Calls

Key Themes: Gender, Economics, and Generations

Gender stereotypes dominate the play, showing how women were viewed in 1912. Mrs Birling's comment that "clothes mean something quite different to a woman" reveals society's shallow expectations of women. Eva Smith is reduced to her appearance - Eric calls her "pretty and a good sport" whilst Gerald dismisses "dough-faced women" as having no inner thought.

The capitalism versus socialism debate drives the central conflict. Mr Birling complains that workers would "soon be asking for the earth," but the Inspector counters that "it's better to ask for the earth than to take it." This highlights how the wealthy expected to get everything whilst workers had to beg for basic rights.

Generational conflict appears throughout, with Mr Birling criticising "the famous young generation who know it all" and calling Eric a "hysterical young fool." The older generation refuses to accept that change might be necessary.

Key Point: The Inspector's phrase "we are members of one body" shows how everyone's actions affect others - you can't escape responsibility for your impact on society.

Class Division and Taking Responsibility

Social class inequality becomes clear through the characters' attitudes. Sheila shows growth when she argues that "these girls aren't cheap labour, they're people," speaking up for those who can't defend themselves. Meanwhile, Mrs Birling assumes "a girl of that sort would refuse money," showing her prejudice about working-class people.

The hierarchy is evident in small details too - Mr Birling casually orders "give us the port, Edna" to their maid, showing the disrespect lower-class workers faced daily from their employers.

Responsibility separates the generations. The Inspector warns that people "will be taught in fire, in blood and anguish" if they don't learn from their mistakes. Sheila accepts blame, saying "I'm desperately sorry" and "between us we killed her," recognising that all the wealthy characters contributed to Eva's death.

The younger generation shows more capacity for change and moral growth than their parents.

Key Point: Priestley uses Eva Smith's death to show how the actions of the privileged class directly harm working people - and why taking responsibility matters.