The Function and Symbolism of the Inspector in J.B. Priestley's An Inspector Calls
In “An Inspector Calls” by J.B. Priestley the Inspector is used as a
voice of conscience and morality. The Inspector does this while
interrogating a very prosperous and upper-middle class family who
believe themselves to be above all.
The dramatic impact that Priestley uses shows the importance, validity
and presence of the inspector. Priestley uses effects such as changing
the lighting “The lighting should be pink and intimate until the
inspector arrives, and then it should be brighter and harder” in the
stage directions. This is to show the change of tone when the
inspector arrives, from joyous and loving to earnest and grave. This
lighting change also symbolises truth and ‘the harsh light of
reality’. His body language is very confronting and serious. “Has a
disconcerting habit of looking at the person he addresses before
actually speaking” This shows the Birlings that he is not playing
games and is making sure they know why he is there. The inspector is
omniscient; he knows everything, although he is still questioning
them. He keeps control of the situation so he can keep track of whatÂ’s
going on and what’s being said: “One line of enquiry at a time”. This
shows that he is in control and Eric and GeraldÂ’s reaction show they
are not used to being controlled.
The inspector treats the Birling family with a slight disrespect,
unlike what was expected of him at the time the play was set. He
treats the Birling family with assertiveness. He questions most of
their actions against their wishes, such as “Birling: I refused, of
course. I...
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... by Priestley in An Inspector Calls. An Inspector Calls is
not just about Britain in 1912, it is about contemporary Britain in
1946, and it is still relevant today. J.B. Priestley could be using
The Inspector as a device to express his own political views and
immortalise his moral standings. Priestley uses The Inspector as a
messenger.
In conclusion, the InspectorÂ’s role is straightforward. The Inspector
has interrupted the lives of the BirlingÂ’s to teach them about life,
morality and the importance of community. The Inspector symbolises a
priest-like figure, a narrator and a moral conscience. The Inspector
takes control of the BirlingÂ’s house hold, which is a very shocking
thing to do at the time the play was set. The Inspector preaches a lot
of J.B. PriestleyÂ’s political views of community, unity and socialism.
