Social Responsibility In An Inspector Calls

“An Inspector Calls” written by dramatist J.B Priestley is a play about social responsibility that carries a strong political message. Set in 1912 - before the first world war and published in 1945 - after the second; this play portrays the consequences of one's action in society through time. Priestley, an ardent socialist believed that all humans despite their wealth or social status are equal; that in order for a community to be strong, everyone had to come together and care for each other. With this play, he has shown the audience that we need to change our attitudes towards society and be responsible for the actions we take as it affects the people around us. Priestley explores the theme of responsibility in this drama which revolves around

This is because when the inspector walks in, even though he is socially “below” them, the audience can see that he has control over them. The Inspector has been given a prominent role in the play by Priestley as his conduit to get his message across to the readers. This is evident through the way he enters the scene- “sharp ring” which interrupts Mr. Birling’s speech about capitalism and how “a man has to mind his own business.” This shows the clear authority the inspector has over Mr. Birling. As the inspector represents socialism and Mr. Birling represents capitalism, this interruption symbolises that socialism is more beneficial to society and is a better

Here Priestley has used the adverb “masterfully” implying his dominance within the characters; though he is socially “below” them. Additionally, the use of the command word “stop” shows that he has taken control, which puts him above them. This shows the Inspector’s intimidating stance as well as showing his character's strength that Priestley is