Exploring Themes in An Inspector Calls

What is the setting of the play "An Inspector Calls" by J.B. Priestley?

• A small village in Scotland

• The Birling family home in Brumley, an industrial city in the North Midlands

• A seaside resort in Wales

• A London townhouse

Answer explanation

The correct setting of 'An Inspector Calls' is the Birling family home in Brumley, an industrial city in the North Midlands. This location is central to the play's themes of social responsibility and class.

Who is the author of "An Inspector Calls"?

• George Bernard Shaw

• J.B. Priestley

• Oscar Wilde

• William Shakespeare

Answer explanation

The correct answer is J.B. Priestley, who wrote "An Inspector Calls" in 1945. The other authors listed, such as George Bernard Shaw, Oscar Wilde, and William Shakespeare, are known for different works.

In which year is "An Inspector Calls" set?

• 1912

• 1925

• 1945

• 1950

Answer explanation

"An Inspector Calls" is set in 1912, a time that reflects the social issues and class distinctions explored in the play. The events unfold just before World War I, highlighting the contrast between the characters' attitudes and the impending changes.

What is the name of the inspector who visits the Birling family?

• Inspector Goole

• Inspector Morse

• Inspector Clouseau

• Inspector Lestrade

Answer explanation

The inspector who visits the Birling family in J.B. Priestley's play 'An Inspector Calls' is named Inspector Goole. The other options, such as Inspector Morse, Clouseau, and Lestrade, are characters from different works.

Which character is engaged to Sheila Birling at the start of the play?

• Eric Birling

• Gerald Croft

• Arthur Birling

• Edna

Answer explanation

Gerald Croft is engaged to Sheila Birling at the start of the play. He is introduced as her fiancé, highlighting their relationship and setting the stage for the unfolding events.

What is the name of the young woman whose death the inspector is investigating?

• Daisy Renton

• Eva Smith

• Mary Warren

• Lucy Steele

Answer explanation

The inspector is investigating the death of Eva Smith, a character central to the play 'An Inspector Calls'. Daisy Renton is another name she uses, but the correct name for the investigation is Eva Smith.

What is Arthur Birling's profession?

• A doctor

• A factory owner

• A lawyer

• A teacher

Answer explanation

Arthur Birling is a factory owner, which is evident from his role in J.B. Priestley's play 'An Inspector Calls'. He is portrayed as a prosperous businessman, emphasizing themes of capitalism and social responsibility.

Which theme is most emphasized in "An Inspector Calls"?

• The significance of personal relationships

• Social duty and the interdependence of individuals

• The influence of affection

• The quest for financial success

Answer explanation

The primary theme of 'An Inspector Calls' is social responsibility and the interconnectedness of society, highlighting how individual actions impact others and the importance of collective accountability.

What is the relationship between Eric Birling and Eva Smith?

• They are siblings

• Eric had a romantic relationship with Eva

• They are colleagues

• They are strangers

Answer explanation

Eric Birling and Eva Smith had a romantic relationship, which is central to the plot of the play. This connection highlights themes of social responsibility and the consequences of actions.

Which character is most resistant to accepting responsibility for their actions?

• Sheila Birling

• Arthur Birling

• Eric Birling

• Gerald Croft

Answer explanation

Arthur Birling is most resistant to accepting responsibility for his actions, as he consistently prioritizes his business interests and social status over accountability, dismissing the consequences of his decisions.