An Inspector Calls: Context (OCR GCSE English Literature): Revision Notes

An Inspector Calls was written by J.B. Priestley in 1945, just after World War II, but is set in 1912, before the war. The play critiques the rigid class system and social attitudes of Edwardian England. This context is crucial as it highlights the disparity between the wealthy Birlings and the working-class Eva Smith, illustrating Priestley's message about social responsibility.

Priestley was a socialist, believing in social equality and collective responsibility. He wrote the play to challenge the capitalist views of the time and to promote the idea that everyone is responsible for one another. This is reflected in the Inspector's questioning, which exposes each character's selfishness and moral failings, reinforcing Priestley's message about the need for social change.

The play is structured as a morality tale, using dramatic irony and the character of Inspector Goole to deliver its moral lessons. The audience, aware of the events that would follow in history (World Wars, the Great Depression), sees the Birlings' complacency and arrogance in a critical light. This adds depth to the play's critique of the upper class, showing the consequences of ignoring social responsibility.

The historical context of 1912, just before the sinking of the Titanic and the outbreak of World War I, is significant. The play uses these events to symbolise the false sense of security and superiority held by the upper class. This context deepens the audience's understanding of Priestley's critique of the Birlings, who, like the Titanic, are headed for disaster if they do not change their ways.