Working Class Struggles and Social Responsibility

The character of Eva Smith/Daisy Renton serves as a powerful representation of working class struggles in early 20th century Britain. Her story illustrates the exploitation and limited options available to working-class women of the time.

Quote: "But these girls aren't cheap labour - they're people."

This quote from the Inspector emphasizes the dehumanizing effect of capitalist exploitation on working-class individuals.

The play explores the theme of social responsibility, challenging the individualistic attitudes of characters like Mr Birling.

Definition: Social Responsibility - The idea that individuals and organizations have a duty to act for the benefit of society at large.

The Inspector serves as a mouthpiece for Priestley's socialist views, arguing that society is interconnected and that the actions of the privileged have far-reaching consequences for the less fortunate.

Highlight: The Inspector's investigation reveals how each member of the Birling family contributed to Eva Smith's downfall, emphasizing collective responsibility.

The play also touches on the limited rights and opportunities for women during this period. Sheila Birling's character arc demonstrates a growing awareness of these inequalities.

Example: Sheila's initial acceptance of her father's decision to fire Eva Smith, followed by her later realization of the injustice, shows her developing social conscience.

The clock motif in the play symbolizes the rigid nature of Mr Birling's views, which remain unchanged despite the passage of time and the revelations brought by the Inspector.

Vocabulary: Motif - A recurring element in a work of literature that has symbolic significance.