An Inspector Calls by J. B. Priestly

An Inspector Calls by J. B. Priestly

The task I have been set and the purpose of this essay is to consider

the many ways in which J.B. Priestly uses the character of Inspector

Goole as a dramatic device in the play An Inspector Calls. I aim to

discuss, in this essay, the character's reactions to the inspector and

the type of relationships formed between them. I shall discuss the

Inspector's entrance and exit and also his final speech. I shall also

talk about the many ways the inspector creates dramatic tension within

the play. I shall also talk about the Inspector's character and

behaviour and the effect he has on the family. Finally I shall

conclude by discussing the ways Priestly has written many of his own

thoughts and views into the play, and evaluating the effectiveness of

the Inspector as a dramatic device.

The entrance of the inspector is poignant because of the irony of the

situation. Before the Inspector entered the room Mr. Birling had been

talking about how it was important to look after only yourself. This

is ironic considering what they are about to learn. Edna's line,

"Edna Please, sir, an inspector's called."

is crucial to the play as it signifies the dramatic change that is

about to affect all their lives. Upon entering the house the Inspector

is very polite, compared to how he is later on in the play, refusing a

drink and addressing people very formally as 'sir' or by their name

almost every time he spoke. However it does not take long for certain

members of the family to take a strong dislike to him.

The first person the Inspector encounters is Mr. Birling; this does

not get off to a good start. Mr. Birl...

... middle of paper ...

...ramatic device in the play,

creating tension when needed, using many techniques to get across

important points, but most of all remaining insignificant. There can

be no dispute over the fact that the inspector is a vital part of the

play, however until the end, he never seems to really play a big part.

Until the end, and his final speech, the inspector is merely seen as

someone to bring about the events of the play, never once does such an

event involve him. The Inspector could be seen as representing fate

and destiny in the play, giving each character in turn the push they

needed to realise the way they've been living is not acceptable, and

their actions can have dire consequences. This sort of realisation

hits, not only the characters, but also the audience, which may have

been exactly what Priestly was trying to do.