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Mar 4, 2023

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Eric Birling: Character, Quotes, Themes and Dramatic Devices in An Inspector Calls

user profile picture

Katie Merrett

@katiemerrett

An Inspector Calls: Character Analysis and Dramatic Devices

J.B. Priestley's... Show more

Of a different generation
"More money to spend and time to
spare than i had when i was Eric's age"
Arthur Birling
Pompoos:
"There's a fair c

Dramatic Devices in "An Inspector Calls"

Priestley employs various dramatic devices to enhance the play's impact and convey its themes effectively. These devices contribute to the tension, suspense, and overall dramatic effect of the performance.

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and foreshadowing events:

Example: The change in lighting from "pink and intimate" to "brighter and harder" when the Inspector arrives symbolizes the exposure of the characters' hidden truths.

Sound effects and entrances/exits are used to create dramatic tension:

Highlight: The Inspector's arrival is announced with a "sharp ring of the doorbell," signaling a disruption to the Birlings' comfortable existence.

Props serve as important tools for revealing information and maintaining suspense:

Example: The photograph of Eva Smith, shown only to one character at a time, creates uncertainty and builds tension among the characters and audience.

Dramatic irony is employed to engage the audience and highlight the characters' ignorance:

Quote: "These silly little war scares" - This statement by Arthur Birling demonstrates dramatic irony, as the audience knows that World War I is imminent.

Cliffhangers are used to maintain audience engagement:

Example: Act One ends with the Inspector saying "Well?" to Sheila and Gerald, leaving the audience in suspense.

The play's structure and form contribute to its overall impact:

  • Three-act structure, each ending on a cliffhanger
  • Use of real-time examination of characters
  • Stage directions that provide insight into characters' emotions and actions

Highlight: The play's form as a live performance allows the audience to experience the tension alongside the characters, enhancing the impact of Priestley's message about collective responsibility.

Of a different generation
"More money to spend and time to
spare than i had when i was Eric's age"
Arthur Birling
Pompoos:
"There's a fair c

Themes and Structure in "An Inspector Calls"

Priestley carefully crafts the themes and structure of "An Inspector Calls" to critique social inequality and promote collective responsibility. The play's cyclical structure reinforces its central messages.

Key themes explored in the play include:

  1. Social responsibility
  2. Class and privilege
  3. Generational divide
  4. Morality and ethics
  5. Gender roles and expectations

Quote: "We don't live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other." - Inspector Goole

This quote encapsulates the play's central theme of collective responsibility, challenging the individualistic attitudes represented by characters like Arthur Birling.

The play's structure supports its themes:

  • The Inspector's methodical questioning reveals the interconnectedness of the characters' actions
  • The play begins and ends in similar circumstances, emphasizing the cyclical nature of societal issues
  • The three-act structure builds tension and allows for character development

Highlight: The play's structure mirrors the process of social awakening, with characters gradually realizing their role in Eva Smith's death.

Symbolism is used throughout the play to reinforce its themes:

Example: The dining room setting symbolizes the Birlings' privileged lifestyle, which is gradually dismantled by the Inspector's revelations.

The play's exploration of these themes and its carefully crafted structure contribute to its enduring relevance and impact on audiences, encouraging reflection on personal and societal responsibilities.

Of a different generation
"More money to spend and time to
spare than i had when i was Eric's age"
Arthur Birling
Pompoos:
"There's a fair c

Character Analysis: Arthur Birling and Eric Birling

Arthur Birling, the patriarch of the Birling family, is portrayed as a self-assured and pompous businessman. His character represents the older generation's values and attitudes.

Quote: "We don't guess - we've had experience - and we know"

This quote exemplifies Arthur's overconfidence and dismissive attitude towards others' opinions. He values his reputation and social status above all else, as evidenced by his concern for potential scandals.

Highlight: Arthur Birling's character traits include being pompous, self-assured, dismissive, and keen to impress.

In contrast, Eric Birling undergoes significant character development throughout the play. Initially presented as a secret drinker and irresponsible young man, Eric becomes more aware of his actions and their consequences.

Quote: "You lot may be letting yourselves out nicely, but I can't"

This statement demonstrates Eric's growing sense of responsibility and remorse for his actions. Unlike his father, Eric becomes more empathetic and willing to acknowledge his mistakes.

Example: Eric's insistence on giving Eva Smith money to support her shows a level of responsibility and kindness not initially apparent in his character.

The contrast between Arthur and Eric Birling highlights the generational divide and the potential for change in societal attitudes.



Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

 

English Lang.

1,580

Mar 4, 2023

3 pages

Eric Birling: Character, Quotes, Themes and Dramatic Devices in An Inspector Calls

user profile picture

Katie Merrett

@katiemerrett

An Inspector Calls: Character Analysis and Dramatic Devices

J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls" explores themes of social responsibility, class, and morality through its characters and dramatic techniques. The play revolves around the Birling family and their involvement in the... Show more

Of a different generation
"More money to spend and time to
spare than i had when i was Eric's age"
Arthur Birling
Pompoos:
"There's a fair c

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Dramatic Devices in "An Inspector Calls"

Priestley employs various dramatic devices to enhance the play's impact and convey its themes effectively. These devices contribute to the tension, suspense, and overall dramatic effect of the performance.

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and foreshadowing events:

Example: The change in lighting from "pink and intimate" to "brighter and harder" when the Inspector arrives symbolizes the exposure of the characters' hidden truths.

Sound effects and entrances/exits are used to create dramatic tension:

Highlight: The Inspector's arrival is announced with a "sharp ring of the doorbell," signaling a disruption to the Birlings' comfortable existence.

Props serve as important tools for revealing information and maintaining suspense:

Example: The photograph of Eva Smith, shown only to one character at a time, creates uncertainty and builds tension among the characters and audience.

Dramatic irony is employed to engage the audience and highlight the characters' ignorance:

Quote: "These silly little war scares" - This statement by Arthur Birling demonstrates dramatic irony, as the audience knows that World War I is imminent.

Cliffhangers are used to maintain audience engagement:

Example: Act One ends with the Inspector saying "Well?" to Sheila and Gerald, leaving the audience in suspense.

The play's structure and form contribute to its overall impact:

  • Three-act structure, each ending on a cliffhanger
  • Use of real-time examination of characters
  • Stage directions that provide insight into characters' emotions and actions

Highlight: The play's form as a live performance allows the audience to experience the tension alongside the characters, enhancing the impact of Priestley's message about collective responsibility.

Of a different generation
"More money to spend and time to
spare than i had when i was Eric's age"
Arthur Birling
Pompoos:
"There's a fair c

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Themes and Structure in "An Inspector Calls"

Priestley carefully crafts the themes and structure of "An Inspector Calls" to critique social inequality and promote collective responsibility. The play's cyclical structure reinforces its central messages.

Key themes explored in the play include:

  1. Social responsibility
  2. Class and privilege
  3. Generational divide
  4. Morality and ethics
  5. Gender roles and expectations

Quote: "We don't live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other." - Inspector Goole

This quote encapsulates the play's central theme of collective responsibility, challenging the individualistic attitudes represented by characters like Arthur Birling.

The play's structure supports its themes:

  • The Inspector's methodical questioning reveals the interconnectedness of the characters' actions
  • The play begins and ends in similar circumstances, emphasizing the cyclical nature of societal issues
  • The three-act structure builds tension and allows for character development

Highlight: The play's structure mirrors the process of social awakening, with characters gradually realizing their role in Eva Smith's death.

Symbolism is used throughout the play to reinforce its themes:

Example: The dining room setting symbolizes the Birlings' privileged lifestyle, which is gradually dismantled by the Inspector's revelations.

The play's exploration of these themes and its carefully crafted structure contribute to its enduring relevance and impact on audiences, encouraging reflection on personal and societal responsibilities.

Of a different generation
"More money to spend and time to
spare than i had when i was Eric's age"
Arthur Birling
Pompoos:
"There's a fair c

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Character Analysis: Arthur Birling and Eric Birling

Arthur Birling, the patriarch of the Birling family, is portrayed as a self-assured and pompous businessman. His character represents the older generation's values and attitudes.

Quote: "We don't guess - we've had experience - and we know"

This quote exemplifies Arthur's overconfidence and dismissive attitude towards others' opinions. He values his reputation and social status above all else, as evidenced by his concern for potential scandals.

Highlight: Arthur Birling's character traits include being pompous, self-assured, dismissive, and keen to impress.

In contrast, Eric Birling undergoes significant character development throughout the play. Initially presented as a secret drinker and irresponsible young man, Eric becomes more aware of his actions and their consequences.

Quote: "You lot may be letting yourselves out nicely, but I can't"

This statement demonstrates Eric's growing sense of responsibility and remorse for his actions. Unlike his father, Eric becomes more empathetic and willing to acknowledge his mistakes.

Example: Eric's insistence on giving Eva Smith money to support her shows a level of responsibility and kindness not initially apparent in his character.

The contrast between Arthur and Eric Birling highlights the generational divide and the potential for change in societal attitudes.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user