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How Does Priestley Create Tension In An Inspector Calls

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AMDG Inspector Calls 8/6/24. “Choose a play in which the writer creates an interesting character”. “An Inspector Calls” written by JB Priestley is a play which takes place within the Birling household. These main themes include: forgiveness, honesty, taking accountability for your actions, as well as having compassion for others. The storyline follows the unfortunate life of Eva Smith, and the events which prompted her suicide. Each member of the Birling family contributed and made some poor decisions of their own part, however, there is one interesting character, Eric who arguably may have tipped her over the edge after abandoning her, pregnant. Act 1 During Sheila’s engagement party, the family is gathered together and Sheila says to Eric: “You’re squiffy”. There is a shortness to this quote, as if it was not the first time that Sheila had noticed this behaviour within Eric. Word choice is used in the word ‘squiffy’ which at this time is referred to as drunk. This shows the time period that the film was set in, however, it also highlights how Sheila feels close enough to Eric to speak to him about such subjects. By Eric being Intoxicated at a family dinner, it highlights a lack of self control, and a possible alcohol problem, relating to “one of his moods”. …show more content…

This is demonstrated by Mr Birling when he says “I can’t imagine”. But he was in one of his excitable, queer moods.” This shows how Eric’s moods can be up and down depending on the occasion. Word choice is used in quotes ‘excitable’ which has connotations of being happy, on a high, or agitated and ‘queer’ which suggests unusual or out of the ordinary behaviour. In the quote, Mr Birling uses the phrase ‘one of his’, implying that Eric has a large spectrum of emotions and moods, which even his family may not necessarily be able to

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