Social Class and Responsibility in An Inspector Calls
An Inspector Calls is a play written by J.B. Priestley. The play is set between 1912 and 1945, a period marked by two world wars. During this era, society was notoriously divided between the “rich” and the “poor.” The author illustrates this inequality by following the story of a girl's suicide. In An Inspector Calls, characters display contrasting attitudes toward social class. On one side, you have the socialist views of the Inspector and those who share his perspective, such as Sheila and Eric; on the other, you have the capitalist views held by Mr. Birling, Mrs. Birling, and Gerald.
Mr. Birling: The Capitalist Perspective
Mr. Birling is a man who cares only for himself. “You’d think everybody has to look after everybody else, as if we were all mixed up together like bees in a hive.” This quote demonstrates that Mr. Birling disagrees with helping those in need; he does not believe the wealthy have an obligation to support the poor. Throughout the play, he shows no respect for those of a lower social class and refuses to accept responsibility for anyone but himself. “I can’t accept any responsibility. If we were all responsible for everything that happened to everybody we’d had anything to do with, it would be very awkward.” In this quote, he reveals his selfishness and his refusal to consider how his actions affect others.
The Inspector: The Socialist Voice
The Inspector represents a socialist viewpoint and holds a fundamentally different perspective on social responsibility. “Public men, Mr. Birling, have responsibilities as well as privileges.” From this, we see his belief that those who are wealthy and hold status should earn their position by helping the underprivileged. “We don’t live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other.” This is the core concept of socialism, and the Inspector’s delivery highlights his firm commitment to these beliefs.
Sheila Birling: Empathy and Change
Sheila’s feelings toward the lower class are revealed through her reaction to her father’s attitude toward working-class women. “But these girls aren’t cheap labour – they’re people.” She demonstrates a sense of responsibility toward those she might employ. Sheila is a character who listens to and agrees with the Inspector because she possesses a deeper understanding of social responsibility. The Inspector reminds her: “We don’t live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the play illustrates that Sheila and Eric are the only members of the Birling family who accept responsibility. This highlights how the younger generation is evolving, showing more empathy than their elders. They accept responsibility and express concern for others, whereas the older generation cares only for themselves and their social standing.