### Study Guide for "An Inspector Calls" by J.B. Priestley (AQA)
#### **1. Context**
**Author Background:**
- J.B. Priestley (1894-1984) was an English novelist, playwright, and broadcaster.
- Known for his interest in social issues and criticism of the class system.
**Historical Context:**
- Written in 1945, set in 1912.
- Pre-World War I setting is crucial for understanding the social dynamics and themes.
**Societal Context:**
- The play critiques Edwardian society and its rigid class structure.
- Reflects post-WWII attitudes towards social responsibility and change.
#### **2. Plot Summary**
**Act 1:**
- The Birling family celebrates Sheila's engagement to Gerald Croft.
- Inspector Goole arrives, investigating the suicide of Eva Smith.
- Mr. Birling and Sheila are questioned, revealing their connections to Eva.
**Act 2:**
- Gerald admits to an affair with Eva (Daisy Renton).
- Mrs. Birling denies help to Eva when she sought charity.
**Act 3:**
- Eric's involvement with Eva is disclosed; he is the father of her unborn child.
- Inspector's message on social responsibility and unity.
- The family debates the Inspector's legitimacy.
- A phone call announces a real inspector is coming to investigate a girl's suicide.
#### **3. Characters**
**Arthur Birling:**
- Wealthy businessman, optimistic about the future, dismissive of social responsibility.
**Sybil Birling:**
- Cold, snobbish, and refuses to accept blame.
**Sheila Birling:**
- Young, initially naïve, grows morally aware throughout the play.
**Eric Birling:**
- Troubled, admits to drinking and an affair with Eva.
**Gerald Croft:**
- Engaged to Sheila, had an affair with Eva, struggles with guilt.
**Inspector Goole:**
#### **1. Context**
**Author Background:**
- J.B. Priestley (1894-1984) was an English novelist, playwright, and broadcaster.
- Known for his interest in social issues and criticism of the class system.
**Historical Context:**
- Written in 1945, set in 1912.
- Pre-World War I setting is crucial for understanding the social dynamics and themes.
**Societal Context:**
- The play critiques Edwardian society and its rigid class structure.
- Reflects post-WWII attitudes towards social responsibility and change.
#### **2. Plot Summary**
**Act 1:**
- The Birling family celebrates Sheila's engagement to Gerald Croft.
- Inspector Goole arrives, investigating the suicide of Eva Smith.
- Mr. Birling and Sheila are questioned, revealing their connections to Eva.
**Act 2:**
- Gerald admits to an affair with Eva (Daisy Renton).
- Mrs. Birling denies help to Eva when she sought charity.
**Act 3:**
- Eric's involvement with Eva is disclosed; he is the father of her unborn child.
- Inspector's message on social responsibility and unity.
- The family debates the Inspector's legitimacy.
- A phone call announces a real inspector is coming to investigate a girl's suicide.
#### **3. Characters**
**Arthur Birling:**
- Wealthy businessman, optimistic about the future, dismissive of social responsibility.
**Sybil Birling:**
- Cold, snobbish, and refuses to accept blame.
**Sheila Birling:**
- Young, initially naïve, grows morally aware throughout the play.
**Eric Birling:**
- Troubled, admits to drinking and an affair with Eva.
**Gerald Croft:**
- Engaged to Sheila, had an affair with Eva, struggles with guilt.
**Inspector Goole:**
