An Inspector Calls Key Quotations

“I should think not. Eric, I’m absolutely ashamed of you.” What is ironic about this line from Mrs Birling?

• She’s trying to protect him

• She blamed an unknown man earlier, not realising it was Eric

• She already knew everything

• She is ashamed of Sheila, not Eric

In “She was claiming elaborate fine feelings and scruples...”, what Edwardian attitude is shown?

• That lower-class women should not express emotions

• That all women are too sensitive

• That feelings were not respected in upper-class men

• That everyone was treated equally

What theme is being explored in: “taught it in fire and blood and anguish”?

• Family loyalty

• Capitalism vs socialism

• Personal regret

• Romance and betrayal

What does the word pretend suggest in Sheila’s accusation?

• That Mrs Birling is acting innocently

• That Mrs Birling is in denial and avoiding guilt

• That Mrs Birling is joking about the situation

• That Mrs Birling is playing a game with Sheila

In the line “perhaps we may look forward to the time when Crofts and Birlings are no longer competing,” Birling is being:

• Polite, hopeful, and business-minded

• Direct, emotional, and critical

• Negative, detached, and joking

• Rude, sarcastic, and angry

What does the phrase “the famous younger generation who know it all” suggest about Birling’s attitude?

• He respects their independence

• He is joking but also patronising

• He is amazed by their intelligence

• He is detached and indifferent

“It’s better to ask for the earth than to take it.” What does this reveal about the Inspector’s view of the working class?

• He believes they are demanding

• He supports their right to fair treatment

• He thinks they should be punished

• He wants to silence them

Which quote best represents the generational divide in the play?

• “You’re beginning to pretend now…”

• “I must say, Sybil…”

• “So I was perfectly justified…”

• “If you don’t come down sharply…”

Given Gerald’s actions with Eva, how would a modern audience likely respond to this quote?

• With understanding

• With admiration

• With shock and disapproval

• With laughter

What does the phrase “You lot may be letting yourselves out nicely, but I can’t” show about Eric’s character development?

• He has accepted responsibility unlike the others

• He blames the Inspector

• He feels superior to the rest of the family

• He plans to leave home