Question 1: Describe how Priestley presents the theme of social responsibility through the character of Mr. Birling. Use specific examples from the play.

Answer: Priestley presents Mr. Birling as a symbol of capitalist arrogance and self-interest. Initially, Mr. Birling is depicted as a confident man who dismisses the idea of community responsibility, emphasizing individual success and profit. For example, he claims that 'the way some of these cranks talk and write now, you'd think everybody has to look after everybody else.' This shows his dismissive attitude towards social responsibility. As the play progresses, his attitudes are challenged, highlighting the play’s message that individuals must take responsibility for their actions within society.

Question 2: Identify and explain two ways Priestley uses dramatic irony to highlight social class differences.

Answer: First, Priestley uses dramatic irony when the audience knows that the Inspector's investigation will reveal the Birling family's involvement in Eva Smith's death, but the characters remain unaware until later. Second, Mr. Birling’s speech about the impossibility of war and his optimistic views on business contrast with the later historical reality of World War I, emphasizing his misplaced confidence and highlighting class complacency. These uses of irony emphasize the disconnect between the upper classes' beliefs and societal realities.

Question 3: Choose a character (other than Mr. Birling) and describe their attitude towards social responsibility. How does this affect their actions in the play?

Answer: Eva Smith, although not a central character, symbolizes the working class and the victims of social inequality. Her attitude is not directly shown, but her experiences reflect the consequences of neglecting social responsibility. Other characters like Sheila and Eric begin to realize their role in her suffering and show a developing sense of responsibility, which influences their actions later in the play, such as Sheila's remorse and Eric’s regret.

Question 4: Practical task: Perform a short improvised scene where a character confronts another about their social responsibilities. Focus on using persuasive tone and confident body language. Describe how you will use drama techniques to convey their attitude.

Answer: In the scene, I will choose a character like Sheila confronting her father about his lack of social responsibility. I will use direct eye contact, strong gestures, and a firm tone to show determination and moral stance. I will employ body language such as standing tall and forward to demonstrate confidence. Voice projection and pauses will be used to emphasize key points. This performance will convey the character’s seriousness and challenge the other character’s beliefs, highlighting the theme of social responsibility.

Question 5: Draw a simple scene diagram of the Birlings' dining room setting. Label the positions of different characters during an argument about social class.

Answer: Students should draw a rectangular room with a dining table in the center. Label the positions with Mr. Birling at one end, Mrs. Birling on his side, Sheila and Gerald opposite them, and Eric and Eva (or her actor representation) on the other side. The diagram should indicate that the characters are seated or standing around the table during the argument, illustrating their spatial relationships and interaction dynamics.

Question 6: Analytical question: How does Priestley use the character of the Inspector to challenge the audience's view on social responsibility?

Answer: Priestley uses the Inspector as a moral voice and a symbol of social conscience. The Inspector's calm yet assertive manner, along with his probing questions, force characters and the audience to reflect on their own responsibilities. His statements like 'We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other' directly challenge capitalist attitudes and promote social awareness. The Inspector’s role encourages the audience to consider moral duty beyond personal gain.

Question 7: In a brief paragraph, explain how class differences are portrayed through dialogue and costume choices in the play.

Answer: Class differences in 'An Inspector Calls' are shown through formal, polished language used by the upper-class characters like Mr. Birling and Gerald, contrasted with simpler, more direct speech from characters like Eva and the younger Birlings. Costumes also reflect social status—characters like Mr. Birling wear expensive, tailored suits, while Eva’s attire is plain and worn. These visual and verbal cues help the audience understand the social divide and its implications.

Question 8: Practical task: Create a short monologue from the perspective of Eva Smith, expressing her feelings about social inequality. Use emotional language and appropriate drama techniques.

Answer: In the monologue, I would speak with a mixture of anger and sadness, using pauses for effect. I would use facial expressions to show pain and frustration, and gestures like clutching an imaginary object to symbolize her suffering. Voice modulation will be used to convey her emotional state—soft and sorrowful at times, then rising in anger. This performance aims to evoke empathy and highlight the theme of social injustice.

Question 9: Reflective question: How can understanding the themes of social responsibility and class help you in real-life situations?

Answer: Understanding these themes encourages me to think about how my actions affect others and the importance of caring for my community. It teaches me to be more compassionate and aware of social inequalities, helping me to make ethical decisions and contribute positively to society.