Question 1: Describe the physical and vocal mannerisms of Inspector Goole. How do these contribute to his authoritative presence on stage?

Answer: Inspector Goole is typically portrayed with a commanding and deliberate physical presence, often standing upright with a steady, firm posture. His vocal mannerisms include a clear, assertive tone, deliberate pacing, and precise diction, which enhance his authority and suggest a moral imperative. These traits help establish him as a figure of justice and scrutiny, creating an intimidating but composed presence that demands attention from other characters and the audience.

Question 2: Perform a short improvised monologue as Inspector Goole, explaining his purpose in investigating the Birling family. Focus on tone, facial expressions, and gestures.

Answer: Students should adopt a serious and assertive tone, maintaining direct eye contact and a composed facial expression to convey moral gravity. Gestures should be controlled and purposeful, perhaps using deliberate hand movements when emphasizing points. The monologue might include phrases like, ‘We are here to investigate a young woman’s death,’ delivered with conviction and calm authority. The performer should use pauses for effect, pausing before key points to heighten tension and demonstrate control over the scene.

Question 3: Analyze Mr Birling's character in terms of his social attitudes and personal ambitions. How do these traits influence his reactions during Inspector Goole’s interrogation?

Answer: Mr Birling is portrayed as a self-made man who values wealth, status, and social reputation. He is confident, somewhat dismissive of others’ opinions, and eager to protect his reputation. During Inspector Goole’s interrogation, these traits cause him to become defensive and dismissive, resisting the moral implications of his actions. His focus on self-interest and social standing often leads to dismissive or evasive responses, highlighting his inability to accept responsibility.

Question 4: Describe a stage direction that would effectively show Mr Birling’s increasing anxiety during the Inspector’s questioning. Explain your choice.

Answer: A stage direction such as ‘Mr Birling shifts uncomfortably in his chair, glances nervously at his wife, and runs a hand through his hair’ would effectively show increasing anxiety. This physical movement indicates discomfort and nervousness, reflecting his awareness of the growing tension and possibly his guilt, without explicitly stating it. Such physical cues help the actor communicate internal conflict non-verbally.

Question 5: Practically, rehearse a scene where Mr Birling tries to dismiss Inspector Goole’s questions. Focus on using tone, pace, and body language to portray arrogance and defensiveness.

Answer: In this task, students should adopt a confident and dismissive tone, speaking at a slightly faster pace to suggest impatience or irritation. Body language should include standing with hands on hips or arms crossed, to portray arrogance and defensiveness. Facial expressions may include a slight sneer or raised eyebrows to suggest condescension. The actor should aim to dominate the space, but also incorporate moments of hesitation to hint at underlying anxiety or guilt, making the performance layered and believable.

Question 6: Compare the ways Inspector Goole and Mr Birling use language and tone to convey their roles in the play. Provide specific examples.

Answer: Inspector Goole uses formal, precise language and a calm, authoritative tone to establish moral superiority and to scrutinize the Birlings’ actions. For example, his direct questions and controlled delivery command respect and highlight his role as a moral investigator. Conversely, Mr Birling often uses colloquial language and a dismissive or boastful tone to assert his social status and dismiss the Inspector’s moral concerns. For example, he brags about his business achievements, which reveals his focus on self-importance. This contrast emphasizes the Inspector’s moral authority versus Mr Birling’s self-interest.

Question 7: Draw a character map for Inspector Goole and Mr Birling. Include their key traits, relationships, and any symbolic elements associated with them. Use brief descriptions or annotations.

Answer: Students should create two diagrams, one for each character. Inspector Goole’s map might include traits like authoritative, moral, deliberate, with connections to themes of justice and social responsibility, and possibly symbols like the ‘moral voice’ or ‘judge’. Mr Birling’s map might include traits like proud, dismissive, ambitious, with links to themes of capitalism and social class. Annotations might note that Inspector’s role symbolizes conscience and truth, while Mr Birling represents self-interest and social complacency.

Question 8: In groups, create a short tableau (still image) depicting a moment where Inspector Goole confronts Mr Birling about his social responsibility. Describe the scene, including positioning and expressions.

Answer: Students should position Inspector Goole standing upright and assertive, perhaps pointing or leaning slightly forward, with a serious facial expression. Mr Birling might be depicted leaning back or with arms crossed, showing defensiveness or surprise. The background should suggest a domestic or office setting, with the characters facing each other to emphasize confrontation. The tableau should communicate tension and moral conflict, with body language and facial expressions highlighting the thematic clash between moral duty and self-interest.

Question 9: Reflect on how the characters of Inspector Goole and Mr Birling serve to communicate the play's moral message. Write a brief paragraph explaining your ideas.

Answer: Inspector Goole represents the voice of morality and social responsibility, challenging characters’ complacency and exposing the consequences of their actions. His calm yet authoritative presence underscores the importance of conscience. Mr Birling embodies self-interest and social complacency, symbolizing those who ignore moral responsibility for personal gain. The contrast between these characters highlights the play’s message that society must be more morally aware and responsible for others. Their interactions serve to provoke the audience’s reflection on moral accountability.