Class Inequality In An Inspector Calls

In ‘An Inspector Calls’, class inequality is depicted through the characters’ social status and their interactions with one another. The wealthy and influential Birling family look down upon and mistreat Eva Smith, a member of the working class, who they see as inferior and disposable, which presents Priestley’s perception of how the upper class viewed the working class. Along with emphasizing the ways in which the Birling family's privilege and influence led to Eva's misery, Inspector Goole also exposes that they were all involved and somehow played a role in her tragic demise. Throughout the play, the characters’ actions and attitudes towards Eva expose their entrenched class biases, as well as the ways they have benefitted from and contributed to a society that prioritises and privileges the powerful and affluent

Birling’s viewpoint that those from the lower class or who are less fortunate can be easily swayed or bought with money. The use of the phrase "a girl of that sort" is a euphemism for a person who belongs to a lower socioeconomic level or status. With this phrase, Ms. Birling sets herself apart from the girl and exudes superiority. Additionally, the use of the word "refuse" implies that the girl has been offered money, further emphasizing the power dynamics between Ms. Birling and others of lower social standing. Overall, Ms. Birling's statement indicates her belief in the inherent superiority of the upper class as well as the notion that lower class people can be manipulated or subjected to financial control. This accentuates the division in society between the wealthy and the poor and paints class disparity in a bad light. Similarly, to Ms. Birling, Gerald exhibits acts of inequality when he claims, "We're respectable people and not criminals." Class inequality is presented through the use of juxtaposition between the characters who consider themselves "respectable citizens" and those who are classified as