An Inspector Calls Key Theme: Class (Edexcel GCSE English Literature): Revision Note

Class timeline

The themes of class in each act of An Inspector Calls:

What are the elements of class in An Inspector Calls?

Priestley presents attitudes towards class in a variety of ways in the play, through symbolic settings, exploited characters and prejudiced attitudes: 

• Settings: The description of the Birlings’ opulent home is sharply contrasted with descriptions of the workers in Arthur’s factory

• Prejudice: Upper-class characters frequently make incorrect assertions about the working classes and view them as morally and socially inferior:

  • The Birlings, particularly Sybil, and Gerald are entrenched in the views of their class system; they cannot genuinely empathise with Eva’s plight or  that of the working classes 

• Exploitation: Eric and Gerald use their class and status to take advantage of Eva Smith while keeping their relationship with her a secret to avoid reputational damage

The impact of class on characters

Priestley uses the characters in An Inspector Calls to criticise the inequality and unfairness of the British class system and argues that the privilege of class blinds people to their immoral behaviour. 

Why does Priestley use the theme of class in his play?

1.  Setting and period

• Priestley underscores how the wealthiest in society enjoy privileges and lives of excess, but are blind to the effects of their actions on the less fortunate in society

• Challenges the outdated values of the upper classes through the Inspector, who speaks for Priestley’s audience when he champions workers’ rights 

2. Plot driver 

• The revelations about how Birling family have abused their class and social status provide a clear dramatic structure 

3. Audience appeal 

• The play’s action is driven by revelations about the immorality of the Edwardian upper classes 

• Its contemporary 1945 audience were more progressive, responsible and aligned with its socialist values 

4. Conflict between characters

• Priestley quickly establishes the theme of class conflict in the opening act

Exam-style questions on the themes of class

Try planning a response to the following essay questions as part of your revision of guilt and responsibility:

• Explore how Priestley depicts conflict between social classes in An Inspector Calls.

• How does Priestley present Eva Smith in order to address different attitudes towards social class in An Inspector Calls?