How does Priestley present the theme of responsibility in “An Inspector Calls”

The drama ‘An Inspector Calls’ is a political sarcasm written by a devoted socialist. J. B Priestley – an ex-soldier who fought in World War I. The drama was set in 1912. 2 old ages prior to World War I ; nevertheless it was written and published in 1945 – merely after universe war II. Priestley uses this clip difference efficaciously to underscore the British society of 1912. where there were steadfast category and gender barriers ; Priestly detested this and was passionate towards the demand of corporate duty – he believed that if there was no alteration.

the effect would be ‘blood. fire and anguish’ . Nonetheless most of these barriers were violated by 1945 ; Priestly wanted to do the most of these alterations. Throughout his drama. he influences his audience of 1945 to take advantage of the chance the terminal of the war had set them to reform an enhanced. more compassionate society. J. B Priestly portrays Mr. Arthur Birling as an chesty. hard-headed. selfish capitalist who is merely concerned about his repute.

Priestley deliberately exaggerates this character to confirm his ain political docket. Birling’s ideas towards socialist political orientations about the significance of community is ‘nonsense’ and that “a adult male has to do his ain way” . This indicates that he has no involvement whatsoever in societal duty – through his concern or his household. In Act One. Mr Birling dictates his anticipations for what he thinks is traveling to go on in the hereafter. He states that “The world’s developing so fast it’ll make war impossible. ” the readers already know that World War I and II have already taken topographic point. Furthermore. he says that the Titanic is ‘absolutely unsinkable’ ; the audience already know that T he Titanic has sunk. Furthermore. he believes that there will be ‘peace and prosperity and rapid advancement everywhere’ . To the audience of 1945. this character would hold been viewed as ridiculously optimistic and short-sighted ; nevertheless these were common premises of those populating in 1912. Priestley does this to demo the deficiency of duty Capitalists had for foretelling what will go on in the hereafter and causes the audience to doubt whatever Mr Birling says because he could be incorrect one time more.