An Inspector Calls: Character Analysis and Dramatic Devices
J.B. Priestley's... Show more
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28
1
Katie Merrett
11/22/2025
English Lang.
An Inspector calls
1,644
•
Nov 22, 2025
•
Katie Merrett
@katiemerrett
An Inspector Calls: Character Analysis and Dramatic Devices
J.B. Priestley's... Show more




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:
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.

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:
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:
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.

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.
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
App Store
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
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

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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:
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.

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
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:
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:
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.

Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
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.
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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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