An Inspector Calls
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University of Wisconsin, Madison *
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HUMAN RESO
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English
Date
Nov 24, 2024
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docx
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Running head: AN INSPECTOR CALLS THESIS
1
Thesis: An Inspector Calls
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AN INSPECTOR CALLS THESIS
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‘An individual is ultimately powerless to affect change in the world’.
To what extent does
this statement align with your own view? Support your answer with detailed reference
from
An Inspector Calls.
The characters' responses to the Inspector's inquiries suggest that while people may
initially seem powerless to affect change, their actions and choices significantly impact on the
lives of others, eventually challenging the impression of powerlessness. Through the characters'
progressing perspectives and the consequences of their actions, the play emphasizes the potential
for individuals to shape the world around them.
Supporting Argument:
Throughout the play, the characters, particularly the Birling family, start as seemingly
indifferent to the suffering of others, believing they are powerless to change societal problems.
However, as the Inspector uncovers their involvement in Eva Smith's tragic life, they become
increasingly aware of their moral responsibility. This transformation highlights how individuals
can influence change by recognising their contributions to the problems they lament.
For instance, Mr. Birling's initial dismissal of social responsibility is challenged as the
Inspector reveals how his actions directly impacted Eva Smith's life. Mrs Birling, too, initially
distances herself from any responsibility, but her powerlessness erodes as the Inspector exposes
her contribution to Eva's despair. These character arcs demonstrate that when confronted with the
consequences of their choices, individuals can no longer claim powerlessness and must
acknowledge their role in shaping the world.
An Inspector Calls
suggests that while individuals
may feel powerless initially, their actions can lead to meaningful change when they recognise
their responsibility for others' well-being. The characters' journeys from indifference to
introspection serve as a powerful commentary on the potential for personal agency in effecting
change.
‘A playwright’s writing are strongly influenced by personal experience as their cultural
context’. Support this statement by drawing on your knowledge and personal opinion in
reference to
An Inspector Calls
J.B. Priestley's writing is certainly influenced by his personal experiences as well as
cultural context, as demonstrated by his deep-seated concern for social injustices and class
differences. Through the characters and subjects in the play, Priestley reflects on his opinions and
the dominant social issues of his time, providing a rich and thought-provoking commentary on
the culture in which he lived.
Supporting Argument:
Priestley's personal experiences and cultural context as a socialist and a witness to the
social upheavals of the early 20th century are evident in the themes and characters of the play.
The Inspector serves as a mouthpiece for Priestley's beliefs, advocating for social responsibility
and condemning the indifference of the upper class. This character embodies Priestley's
convictions and critiques the societal context in which the play is set.
AN INSPECTOR CALLS THESIS
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Furthermore, the play's exploration of class divisions, economic inequality, and the
consequences of unchecked privilege reflects the prevalent issues of Priestley's time. The Birling
family represents the upper echelons of society, highlighting the disparities and callousness of
the wealthy towards the less fortunate. Priestley's writing underscores the need for change in the
face of such injustices.
An Inspector Calls
is a product of J.B. Priestley's personal experiences
and cultural context, serving as a platform for him to voice his concerns about societal
inequalities and the moral obligations of the privileged class. The play's themes and characters
mirror the issues of his era, showcasing the strong influence of personal experience and cultural
context on a playwright's work.
‘We are all members of one body, we are responsible for each other.’ To what extent do you
think the inspector ‘s investigations affect the sense of responsibility of the characters in the
play?
The Inspector's investigations in
An Inspector Calls
have a profound and lasting effect on
the characters, challenging their sense of responsibility and emphasising the interconnectedness
of individuals in society. As the Inspector reveals their contributions to Eva Smith's tragedy, the
characters are compelled to challenge their moral obligations and the significances of their
actions, altering their sense of responsibility.
Supporting Argument:
Throughout the play, the Inspector's relentless probing into Eva Smith's life exposes the
characters' moral failings and their direct or indirect involvement in her suffering. This scrutiny
forces them to recognise their shared responsibility for her fate and the broader issues of social
injustice. For instance, upon realising their roles in Eva's downfall, Sheila and Eric express
remorse and an increased sense of responsibility, indicating the Inspector's impact on their moral
development.
Moreover, the Inspector's final revelation that Eva Smith may not have existed at all
raises questions about the nature of the investigation. Still, it does not negate the characters'
changed perspectives and heightened sense of responsibility. They understand that even if Eva
Smith were a fabrication, their actions and attitudes towards her symbolise the societal problems
they must address. The Inspector's investigations in
An Inspector Calls
catalyse the characters'
transformation and heightened sense of responsibility. By holding them accountable for their
actions, the play emphasises that individuals are indeed members of one body and are
responsible for each other, thereby underscoring the lasting impact of the Inspector's inquiries on
the characters' moral compasses.
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AN INSPECTOR CALLS THESIS
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Reference
Priestley, J. B. (1992).
An inspector calls
. Heinemann.