Worksheet on An Inspector Calls: Social Context
English
Grade 8
7 questions
~14 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A worksheet designed to assess understanding of the social context depicted in J.B. Priestley's play 'An Inspector Calls'. It includes exam-style questions focusing on analysis skills and comprehension of the social themes presented in the text.
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Worksheet on An Inspector Calls: Social Context
Subject: EnglishGrade: Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Grade 8
A
Introduction to Social Context in 'An Inspector Calls'
Scene Summary: In J.B. Priestley's play 'An Inspector Calls', the Birling family hosts a dinner party that is suddenly interrupted by Inspector Goole. The inspector questions each family member about their connections to a young woman named Eva Smith, revealing how their actions and attitudes contribute to her tragic fate. Setting this social drama in 1912, the play critiques the class divisions, social responsibility, and the moral shortcomings of the upper class during this period.
Context Guide: The play was written and first performed in 1945, shortly after World War II. However, it is set in 1912, a time characterized by rigid class distinctions and economic disparity in Britain. Priestley uses the play as a social commentary, emphasizing themes of collective responsibility and moral accountability. The characters represent different social attitudes, from self-interest to guilt and remorse. Quotes such as 'public men, Mr. Birling, have responsibilities as well as privileges' highlight Priestley's message that society must be more caring and responsible for all its members.
1.
Briefly summarize the social issues highlighted in 'An Inspector Calls'.
[2 marks]2.
What does the quote 'public men, Mr. Birling, have responsibilities as well as privileges' suggest about Priestley's message?
[2 marks]B
Analysis of Social Themes
Throughout 'An Inspector Calls', Priestley employs various techniques such as dialogue, irony, and symbolism to critique society. For example, the inspector's repeated questions expose the interconnectedness of the characters' actions. The use of dramatic irony, especially with Mr. Birling's confident statements about the future, underscores the play's critique of complacency and social arrogance. Symbols like the lamp and the house represent the superficiality and moral blindness of the upper class.
1.
Identify and analyze the use of irony in the character of Mr. Birling.
[3 marks]2.
Explain how the inspector uses dialogue to reveal social responsibility.
[3 marks]C
Creative Writing Prompt
Write a short monologue imagining yourself as Eva Smith. Reflect on the social injustices she faced. Your monologue should be approximately 150-200 words and express her feelings and thoughts about her treatment.
1.
Create a monologue from Eva Smith's perspective, expressing her feelings about the social injustices she experienced.
D
Discussion and Critical Thinking
Answer these questions to deepen your understanding of the social context and themes.
1.
How does Priestley's portrayal of the Birling family reflect societal attitudes of the early 20th century?
[2 marks]2.
Discuss how the play encourages audiences to think about their own social responsibilities today.
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet