Question 1: Describe the physical and vocal characteristics of Inspector Goole as you imagine him. How can these be used in a performance to create an intimidating presence?

Answer: Inspector Goole is typically portrayed with a commanding and deliberate voice, using pauses for effect. His physical presence should be upright and assertive, with steady eye contact and controlled gestures. In performance, using a firm tone, slow deliberate movements, and maintaining a serious facial expression can convey authority and create an intimidating presence that commands attention and respect.

Question 2: Identify three key personality traits of Mr Birling and provide examples from the text that support each trait.

Answer: Mr Birling is portrayed as: 1. Self-Interested – He dismisses the possibility of conflict, focusing only on his business reputation, e.g., 'Lower costs and higher prices!' 2. Ignorant or Naïve – He dismisses social responsibility, believing he knows better, e.g., 'The way some of these cranks talk and write now, you’d think everybody has to look after everybody else.' 3. Egotistical – He believes he’s an important figure, dismissing others’ opinions, e.g., 'I’m talking as a hard-headed, practical man of business.'

Question 3: Practical task: In groups, rehearse a short scene where Mr Birling dismisses the idea of social responsibility. Use stage directions to emphasize his attitude. Perform to the class.

Answer: Students should work together to develop a scene where Mr Birling dismisses social responsibility with dismissive gestures, a dismissive tone, and a confident posture. For example, crossing arms, speaking in a firm, dismissive tone, and using sharp gestures. Performers should focus on projecting Mr Birling’s arrogance and ignorance, using clear diction and physicality to reinforce his character traits.

Question 4: Analyze how Priestley uses Inspector Goole’s interrogative style to build tension. What dramatic techniques does the Inspector use?

Answer: Priestley portrays Inspector Goole as a relentless questioner, using rapid-fire questions and pauses to heighten tension. The Inspector’s tone is probing and authoritative, often pausing after questions to allow characters to reveal truths, which increases dramatic suspense. His use of direct address, eye contact, and a steady, unyielding voice all contribute to a tense atmosphere that challenges characters’ moral compasses and engages the audience.

Question 5: Describe a performance movement or gesture that could effectively depict Mr Birling’s arrogance during a key line. Explain your choice.

Answer: A suitable gesture could be standing with hands on hips or leaning back confidently with chest outward. For example, during the line 'I’m talking as a hard-headed, practical man of business,' adopting a posture that exudes confidence and dominance emphasizes his arrogance. Movements like dismissive hand gestures or a puffed-out chest can further portray his self-importance.

Question 6: Compare and contrast the ways Inspector Goole and Mr Birling use language to influence others. Provide examples from the play.

Answer: Inspector Goole uses precise, probing, and sometimes confrontational language to force characters to reveal truths and reflect on their morality, e.g., 'Public men, Mr. Birling, have responsibilities as well as privileges.' In contrast, Mr Birling uses persuasive but self-interested language, often dismissing others’ concerns or exaggerating his importance, e.g., 'The world’s developing so fast that it’s hard to keep up with it.' The Inspector’s language aims to provoke moral reflection, while Birling’s seeks to reinforce his authority and self-interest.

Question 7: Describe how you would physically differentiate the roles of Inspector Goole and Mr Birling on stage through costume, stance, and movement.

Answer: Inspector Goole could be dressed in darker, more neutral or utilitarian clothing, with a stern stance, upright posture, and deliberate movements to emphasize authority. His movement should be slow and controlled, with strong eye contact. Mr Birling might wear a smart suit, with a more relaxed or confident stance, perhaps leaning slightly or gesturing expansively to show arrogance. Movements can be quick or abrupt when dismissive, contrasting with the Inspector’s calm control, to visually distinguish their characters.

Question 8: How can physical gestures and facial expressions be used to show Mr Birling’s dismissiveness and complacency during a monologue? Provide specific examples.

Answer: Mr Birling’s dismissiveness can be portrayed by shrugging shoulders, waving a hand dismissively, or looking away when others speak. A smug facial expression, with a slight smirk or raised eyebrows, can show his complacency. For example, during his speech about his importance in society, maintaining a confident stance with a slight smile and dismissive gestures will effectively communicate his arrogance and lack of concern for others.

Question 9: Evaluate the role of the Inspector’s final speech in shaping the audience’s understanding of moral responsibility. How might this influence the way you portray his character on stage?

Answer: The Inspector’s final speech leaves the audience with a moral message about social responsibility and collective accountability. It emphasizes that everyone’s actions affect others and that moral duty extends beyond oneself. As an actor, portraying the Inspector with sincerity, conviction, and a compelling vocal delivery during this speech underscores his role as a moral voice. Using sustained eye contact and a measured pace can help convey the gravity of his message and inspire the audience to reflect on their own responsibilities.