How is the theme of responsibility explored by J.B Priestley in 'An Inspector Calls'?

An Inspector Calls delves into the theme of responsibility - exploring which different demographics of individuals are willing to take responsibility for the death of Eva Smith. Priestley achieves this by creating binary oppositions of the reactions of characters dependent on their class or age. For example, as an elder character, Mrs Birling believes that the whole situation is 'impertinent' whereas the younger characters such as Sheila Birling are depicted as remorseful in 'if she had been some plain old creature, I don't suspect i'd have done it'. Here Priestley demonstrates that the 'younger ones are more impressionable' commenting on the differences in responsibility in age different generations in society.

KB
Answered by Kia B. English tutor

4445 Views

See similar English GCSE tutors

Related English GCSE answers

All answers ▸

When analysing poetry, what is the difference between language, form and structure?


How do effectively read a poem?


Examine the View that Byron’s Presentation of Love is Purely Superficial


(Language paper) - ' How has the writer structured the text to convey his/her message to its readers'?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning