Inspector Goole Flashcards
(4 cards)
His importance
The Inspector highlights the chain of events connecting individuals in society. He establishes the links between the Birlings and Eva Smith / Daisy Renton to encourage the family to accept their responsibilities and change the way they behave towards others in the future.
He highlights generational conflict: while Mr and Mrs Birling, the older generation, refuse to accept the Inspector’s message, Sheila and Eric, the younger generation, are open to social change and taking responsibility for one’s actions.
He speaks on behalf of the victimised and oppressed: because his investigation is based upon Eva Smith’s diary, it is as though he speaks for Eva from beyond the grave. He forces the Birlings to consider the “millions and millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths” who might struggle because of capitalist greed
“Public men, Mr Birling, have responsibilities as well as privileges.”
Noun Phrase: “Public men”
This phrase refers to people in positions of power — like businessmen, politicians, and leaders.
The Inspector is generalising beyond Birling — this is a criticism of the ruling class.
He is stating that leadership comes with moral duties, not just social status or wealth
Juxtaposition: “responsibilities as well as privileges”
The Inspector uses juxtaposition to highlight the imbalance in Birling’s worldview.
Birling enjoys the “privileges” of wealth and status but rejects any “responsibilities”.
This line is the heart of Priestley’s socialist message: power must be used to help others, not just benefit the self.
“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.”
Metaphor: “members of one body”
This is a biblical allusion (Christian teachings about the body of Christ), which would resonate with religious members of a 1945 audience.
Suggests that society is interconnected — harm to one person affects everyone.
This metaphor reflects socialism and moral responsibility — Priestley is appealing to both secular and religious values.
Warning & Threatening Tone: “fire and blood and anguish”
This tricolon (list of three) and vivid, violent imagery creates a warning.
Refers to the real consequences of ignoring social responsibility — World Wars, suffering, and class conflict.
The religious/apocalyptic tone suggests a moral judgement — society must change, or face destruction.
“I don’t play golf.”
Moral Authority Over Social Hierarchy
The Inspector is not impressed by Birling’s social standing.
Instead of respecting Birling’s wealth or trying to win favour, he remains neutral and professional, showing that he represents justice and morality, not social inequality.
Rejection of Class Privilege
Golf here symbolises upper-class leisure, wealth, and social status.
Birling name-drops golf earlier as a way of establishing his power and connections (“I play golf with the Chief Constable”).
The Inspector’s refusal shows he cannot be influenced by class, status, or flattery.
