Inspector Goole - Act 2

Question 1

The inspectpr’s line that…

Answer 1

• The Inspector’s line that “You see, we have to share something. If there’s nothing else, we’ll have to share our guilt.” uses repetition to emphasise the inevitability of shared responsibility. The word “have” suggests a moral obligation, while “guilt” is presented as the one thing that unites them, reinforcing how their individual actions are part of a wider, damaging system.

Question 2

By saying “We…

Answer 2

• By saying “We often do on the young ones they’re more impressionable”, the Inspector acknowledges that the younger generation is more open to change. The adjective “impressionable” carries both vulnerability and hope, suggesting that their mistakes can lead to growth, unlike the stubbornness of the older characters. It adds a quiet but pointed contrast within the family. Priestley uses this line to subtly point towards the hope that lies in future generations — people who might reject the rigid, self-serving values of their parents.

Question 3

When the inspector says “You…

Answer 3

• When the Inspector says “You needn’t give me any rope”, the metaphor subtly suggests that the Birlings are tying their own knots. The image of “rope” alludes to guilt and entrapment, showing how their own words and actions will expose them without the Inspector needing to push too hard.
• It reflects his confidence in the investigative process and implies that the truth doesn’t need to be forced.