J.B. Priestley was born in 1912 in England. During WW1, at the age of 20, Priestley served on the front line in France and was wounded. After the war, in 1919, he was awarded a place at Trinity Hall, Cambridge to study Literature, History, and Politics. Following his education, in 1922, he began working as a journalist in London.
In 1934, Priestley wrote 'English Journey' about the poorer parts of Britain. During the 1939-45 period, he made regular wartime radio broadcasts called 'Britain Speaks'. Then, in 1945, he wrote one of his most famous works, 'An Inspector Calls'.
Throughout his works, Priestley addressed social and political issues. His writings reflected on pre-WW1 suffragette movement, the class system, and post-WW1 and WW2 social leveling, trade unions, women's rights, workers' rights, national insurance, welfare system, and NHS.
The plot of 'An Inspector Calls' can be broken down into three acts. In Act One, the Birling family and Gerald Croft are celebrating Sheila's engagement to Gerald. Mr. Birling makes pompous speeches outlining his political and social views, interrupted by the arrival of Inspector Goole making inquiries about the suicide of Eva Smith.
In Act Two, the plot thickens as Gerald and Mr. Birling both admit to their wrongdoings related to Eva Smith, and Sheila starts to realize the seriousness of the Inspector's inquiries. The tension continues to build towards the climax.
In Act Three, Eric returns and confesses to his involvement, and the Inspector makes a dramatic speech about the consequences of selfish behavior and social irresponsibility. It is revealed that there is no real police inspector, and the story concludes with a mysterious phone call.
The play features a diverse set of characters, each with their own unique traits and flaws. From Mr. Arthur Birling, a capitalist and industrialist, to Mrs. Sybil Birling, who is judgemental and controlling. The character of Inspector Goole serves as Priestley's mouthpiece for social justice and equality.
The ending of 'An Inspector Calls' leaves the audience with a sense of mystery and moral introspection. The unexpected twist and the revelation about the Inspector's true identity leave the characters and the audience questioning their own actions and responsibilities.
With this deeper understanding of the text and its context, readers can appreciate the timeless themes and social commentary that J.B. Priestley embedded into his work.
By weaving together a compelling narrative with thought-provoking social commentary, Priestley created a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with audiences today.
J.B. Priestley's early life, famous works, and achievements all played a significant role in shaping his views and the themes he tackled in his writing. 'An Inspector Calls' remains a powerful and thought-provoking play that continues to captivate audiences with its compelling plot and enduring themes.
