Context of "An Inspector Calls"
J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" is a powerful exploration of social and political changes in Britain between 1912 and 1945. The play, set in the fictional industrial town of Brumley, serves as a microcosm for broader societal shifts during this period.
Highlight: The play's setting in 1912 but writing in 1945 allows Priestley to critique pre-WWI society from a post-WWII perspective, making the audience more receptive to socialist viewpoints.
Political Context
In 1912, Britain was characterized by a capitalist system with limited voting rights and minimal welfare. By 1945, the country had become increasingly socialist, with expanded suffrage and the beginnings of a welfare state.
Example: In 1912, only male homeowners could vote, while by 1945, all men and women over 21 had voting rights.
Economic Changes
The period between 1912 and 1945 saw significant economic upheaval, including the Great Depression and two World Wars. These events led to increased labor unrest and a shift in power dynamics between business owners and workers.
Vocabulary: Bourgeois - middle class; Proletariat - working class
Gender Roles
The play highlights the evolution of gender roles from a patriarchal society in 1912 to growing equality by 1945, largely influenced by women's contributions during the World Wars.
Quote: "Eva is referred to as a 'girl' rather than a woman"
Class Structure
Priestley uses the characters to represent different social classes and their changing dynamics:
- Upper Class: Least numerous, wealthiest and most powerful (e.g., Gerald Croft)
- Middle Class: Business owners, professionals (e.g., the Birlings)
- Working Class: Most numerous, reliant on welfare and charity (e.g., Eva Smith)
Priestley's Political Views
J.B. Priestley's political views were decidedly socialist, and he uses the character of Inspector Goole as a mouthpiece for these ideas. The play serves as a political diatribe, critiquing capitalism and promoting social responsibility.
Definition: Political diatribe - a piece of writing that severely criticizes the politics of that time.
Significance of Setting
Priestley's choice of Brumley as a setting is deliberate, representing industrial cities across England. His experiences growing up in Bradford inform the play's depiction of factory conditions and class relations.
Highlight: Priestley's exposure to factories, working-class life, and business owners in Bradford influenced his portrayal of Brumley and its inhabitants.
The play invites the audience to critically examine the "golden age" before WWI and sympathize with the plight of the poor, embodied by Eva Smith. Through the character of Inspector Goole, Priestley challenges the self-satisfaction and false security of the Birling family, emphasizing the importance of social awareness and personal responsibility.
