Exploring 'An Inspector Calls' Quotations

Which character in 'An Inspector Calls' says the line, "We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other"?

• Arthur Birling

• Inspector Goole

• Sheila Birling

• Sybil Birling

Answer explanation

The line "We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other" is spoken by Inspector Goole, emphasizing the theme of social responsibility in the play.

What dramatic technique is used when the doorbell rings just as Arthur Birling is giving a speech about individualism?

• Foreshadowing

• Irony

• Dramatic irony

• Cliffhanger

Answer explanation

The ringing doorbell during Arthur Birling's speech about individualism serves as foreshadowing, hinting at impending events that will challenge his views, thus creating tension and anticipation for the audience.

Summarise the significance of the photograph shown by Inspector Goole to each character.

• It reveals their connection to Eva Smith.

• It is a random photograph with no significance.

• It is a photograph of the Inspector's family.

• It is used to intimidate the characters.

Answer explanation

The photograph shown by Inspector Goole is significant as it reveals each character's connection to Eva Smith, highlighting their moral responsibilities and the impact of their actions on her life.

What is the main theme highlighted by the quote, "The time will soon come when, if men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught it in fire and blood and anguish"?

• Love

• Responsibility

• Wealth

• Power

Answer explanation

The quote emphasizes the importance of learning responsibility. It suggests that if people fail to understand their duties, they will face severe consequences, symbolized by 'fire and blood and anguish', highlighting the need for accountability.

How does Priestley use the character of Sheila to convey his message about social responsibility?

• She remains unchanged throughout the play.

• She becomes more aware and remorseful of her actions.

• She blames others for her actions.

• She leaves the family to join a convent.

Answer explanation

Priestley uses Sheila's character development to illustrate social responsibility. As she becomes more aware and remorseful of her actions, it highlights the importance of recognizing one's impact on others and the need for change.

What is the dramatic significance of the play being set in one location, the Birling's dining room?

• It limits the action and focuses on dialogue.

• It allows for multiple scene changes.

• It highlights the wealth of the Birlings.

• It makes the play more expensive to produce.

Answer explanation

Setting the play in the Birling's dining room limits the action and emphasizes dialogue, allowing the characters' interactions and conflicts to take center stage, which is crucial for the play's themes and messages.

Which character says, "I speak as a hard-headed business man," and what does this reveal about them?

• Eric Birling; it shows his ambition.

• Arthur Birling; it shows his pride in his business acumen.

• Gerald Croft; it shows his desire to impress.

• Inspector Goole; it shows his authority.

Answer explanation

Arthur Birling's statement, "I speak as a hard-headed business man," reveals his pride in his business acumen, highlighting his focus on profit and success over social responsibility.

Evaluate the use of dramatic irony in Arthur Birling's speech about the impossibility of war and the unsinkability of the Titanic.

• It shows his wisdom and foresight.

• It highlights his ignorance and arrogance.

• It demonstrates his concern for the future.

• It reveals his deep understanding of world events.

Answer explanation

Dramatic irony in Arthur Birling's speech underscores his ignorance and arrogance, as he confidently asserts the impossibility of war and the Titanic's unsinkability, unaware of the impending disasters that contradict his claims.

What plot development occurs when Gerald Croft is questioned by Inspector Goole?

• Gerald admits to knowing Eva Smith and having an affair with her.

• Gerald denies ever meeting Eva Smith.

• Gerald accuses Eric of being involved with Eva Smith.

• Gerald leaves the house in anger.

Answer explanation

Gerald admits to knowing Eva Smith and having an affair with her when questioned by Inspector Goole, revealing his connection to the case and adding complexity to the plot.

Which character is most affected by the Inspector's visit and how is this shown?

• Arthur Birling; he becomes more stubborn.

• Sybil Birling; she becomes more charitable.

• Sheila Birling; she becomes more reflective and remorseful.

• Eric Birling; he becomes more secretive.

Answer explanation

Sheila Birling is most affected by the Inspector's visit as she becomes more reflective and remorseful about her actions towards Eva Smith, showing a significant change in her character compared to the others.