How does Priestley explore responsibility in 'An Inspector Calls'?

Priestley believed that in a rapidly developing capitalist world, issues of social responsibility were of increasing importance. He explores this message in his play, 'An Inspector Calls' through a careful examination of the flaws apparent in the Birling family. For example, Mr Birling, a 'heavy looking, rather portentous man' seems fixated on profit. He values 'lower costs and higher prices' over the welfare of his workers, suggesting his selfishness and arrogance. Furthermore, he rejects responsibility for the most part of the play, claiming that the discharge of Eva Smith had 'nothing to do' with her suicide. Priestley portrays Mr Birling as a man with a lot of power, but no intent to help those below him in the social order, instead choosing to shirk responsibility and continue living his life in a capitalist bubble.

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Answered by Joseph N. English Literature tutor

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