Responsibility Flashcards
Overview
In An Inspector Calls, the theme of responsibility emphasises the impact of individual actions on others. Priestley critiques the selfishness and lack of accountability in the upper class, contrasting it with the idea of collective responsibility. The play advocates for moral growth and social awareness to create a more just and compassionate society.
Quotes
‘All mixed up together like bees in a hive - community and all that nonsense’ - Pg 10
‘I know I’m to blame - but I’m desperately sorry’ - Pg 29
“I think she only had herself to blame.” - Pg 43
‘Millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths’ - Pg 56
‘All mixed up together like bees in a hive - community and all that nonsense’
Point - Mr Birling is presented as rejecting responsibility, dismissing socialism as trivial, reinforcing his belief in individualism over collective duty.
Choice - Priestley uses the simile ‘All mixed up together like bees in a hive - community and all that nonsense’ to show Mr. Birling’s rejection of socialist values. By comparing society to a hive, he infantilises socialism, likening it to something disorganised and insignificant. The word ‘bees’ suggests annoyance and ephemerality, implying that Birling views socialism as a fleeting trend rather than a lasting ideology.
Effect - Birling’s dismissive tone reflects his arrogance and ignorance, reinforcing his belief in class segregation and self-interest. This highlights the rigid social hierarchy of 1912 and contrasts with Priestley’s call for social change. The irony of Birling’s statement, given that socialist ideals persisted well beyond his time, encourages the audience to challenge outdated views and embrace collective responsibility.
‘I know I’m to blame - but I’m desperately sorry’
Point - Sheila is presented as accountable and remorseful, accepting responsibility and contrasting with the older generation’s refusal to change.
Choice - Priestley has Sheila explicitly state, “I know I’m to blame – and I’m desperately sorry,” using first-person pronouns to emphasise her personal acceptance of guilt. The phrase “desperately sorry” conveys deep remorse, and the dash creates a pause, reinforcing her sincerity and emotional weight.
Effect - This marks a stark contrast between Sheila and the older generation, who refuse to accept blame. Her remorse signifies growth and maturity, aligning with Priestley’s message that the younger generation is more open to change. By highlighting Sheila’s acceptance of responsibility, Priestley encourages the audience to reflect on their own accountability and embrace social responsibility.
“I think she only had herself to blame.”
Point - Mrs Birling is presented as childish and unsympathetic, shifting blame to Eva to avoid responsibility, highlighting her refusal to acknowledge systemic inequality.
Choice - By shifting the blame onto Eva, despite her being the victim, “I think she only had herself to blame.” Mrs Birling reflects the upper-class belief that the lower-class suffered due to their own choices rather than systemic inequality. Her refusal to acknowledge her role mirrors a child’s tantrum, as she desperately avoids accountability.
Effect - Priestley presents Mrs Birling as childish and unsympathetic to make the audience dislike her and the privileged class she represents. This reinforces his socialist message that the wealthy cannot absolve themselves of responsibility for the suffering of the poor.
‘Millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths’
Point - The Inspector uses his final speech to convey the message of social responsibility.
Choice - The phrase “millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths” uses pathos to evoke guilt and compassion in the audience. The repetition of “millions” amplifies the scale of suffering, while the use of generic names like “Eva” and “John Smith” universalises the plight, making it relatable to ordinary people. This technique encourages the audience to empathise with the marginalised and reflect on their role in perpetuating systemic injustices.
Effect - The pathos in this phrase deepens the emotional impact, urging the audience to confront the widespread nature of inequality. It challenges them to recognize their shared responsibility in addressing these social issues, reinforcing Priestley’s moral message that social responsibility should be collective, not individual. The audience is prompted to consider their actions and attitudes towards the marginalised in society.
‘Fire, blood and anguish’
Point - The Inspector uses his final speech to emphasise the theme of social responsibility.
Choice - Priestley uses the Inspector to convey the consequences of societal inaction, specifically through his statement, “we will be taught in fire and blood and anguish.” The triplet acts as metaphors for the world wars, suggesting that unless society changes, the cycle of destruction will continue. The Inspector is presented as an omnipotent, imposing figure who challenges the selfishness of the upper classes and calls for greater empathy and responsibility. His impartiality further emphasises his role as an unbiased moral voice.
Effect - This use of the Inspector forces the audience to consider the repercussions of ignoring social responsibility, particularly in terms of the devastating consequences seen in the world wars. The impartial nature of the Inspector encourages the audience to trust his judgment and reflect on their own role in fostering change. Priestley’s message becomes clear: without societal change, the cycle of inequality and destruction will continue, making the need for empathy and responsibility urgent.
