Inspector ( done ) Flashcards
(7 cards)
Overview
Priestley uses the character of Inspector Goole as a vehicle to expose the dangers of capitalism and emphasise the need for collective social responsibility. Through his persistent and authoritative manner, the Inspector serves as a mouthpiece for Priestley’s socialist ideals, challenging the selfishness and ignorance of the older, capitalist generation. In doing so, Priestley encourages his audience to embrace a more moral, compassionate, and egalitarian society.
Beginning quotes
“(cutting through, massively) “
“no money coming in, and living in lodgings with no relatives to help her, few friends, lonely, half-starved, she was feeling desperate”
“Are you sure you don’t know? He looks at Gerald, then at eric, then at Sheila” - “Goole. G. double O – L – E.”
“I didn’t do it, she’s upsetting herself”
Middle quotes
‘And you think young women ought to be protected against unpleasant and disturbing things?’
‘(massively) Public men Mr Birling, have responsibilities as well as privileges.’
‘(Very deliberately) I think you did something terribly wrong – and that you’re going to spend the rest of your life regretting it.’
‘You’re not even sorry now, when you know what happened to the girl?’
Ending quotes
“(cutting in smoothly) … There’ll be plenty of time … to adjust your family relationships.”
‘We don’t live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other.’
“if men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish.”
‘(He walks straight out, leaving them staring, subdued and wondering.)”
Beginning opening
At the beginning of the play, Priestley initially presents the Inspector as a powerful and disruptive character who immediately challenges the authority and complacency of the Birlings. Through him, Priestley begins to critique class inequality and highlight the failure of the upper class to take moral responsibility.
Middle opening
As the play progresses, the Inspector takes on the role of moral judge, holding each character accountable and confronting their hypocrisy. His questions become more personal and accusatory, revealing the cracks in the Birlings’ moral façades. Priestley uses this to expose the dangers of selfishness and to challenge the audience to reflect on their own social responsibilities.
Ending opening
As the play comes to a close, the Inspector delivers a powerful moral message and exits dramatically, leaving the characters and audience with a haunting reminder of their ethical duties. Priestley uses him to reinforce his own socialist message and advocates for collective accountability.
