“An Inspector Calls” by J.B. Priestley is a thought-provoking play set in 1912 England, just before the outbreak of World War I and during a time of significant social change. The story unfolds in the prosperous household of the Birling family, celebrating the engagement of their daughter Sheila to Gerald Croft, son of a wealthy businessman. The atmosphere is disrupted when Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly to investigate the suicide of a young working-class woman, Eva Smith.

Through Inspector Goole’s relentless questioning, each member of the Birling family—Arthur Birling, a self-made businessman; his wife Sybil; their son Eric; and Sheila—are revealed to have played a role in Eva’s tragic life and eventual death. The play explores themes of responsibility, social inequality, and the consequences of one’s actions. Inspector Goole acts as a moral compass, challenging the Birlings’ complacency and exposing their moral shortcomings.

As the investigation progresses, it becomes clear that Eva Smith’s life was deeply affected by the actions of each character. Arthur Birling, through his callous decisions as an employer, contributed to her dismissal from his factory, which set off a chain of events leading to her downfall. Sheila’s jealousy and impulsiveness led to Eva losing her job at a department store. Gerald’s affair with Eva and subsequent abandonment further compounded her hardships. Eric’s impulsive relationship with Eva resulted in her pregnancy and eventual financial dependence on him.

Throughout the play, Priestley uses the character of Inspector Goole not only to investigate Eva’s death but also to highlight the interconnectedness of society and the collective responsibility individuals have towards each other. Inspector Goole’s identity and purpose remain ambiguous, adding an element of mystery and symbolism to the narrative. His departure and the subsequent revelation that no girl has died that night suggest that the Inspector may have been a supernatural or metaphorical figure embodying the consequences of societal indifference and moral decay.

The play concludes with a phone call announcing the suicide of a young woman, suggesting that the lessons the Birlings failed to learn are tragically relevant beyond their insulated world. “An Inspector Calls” serves as a powerful critique of Edwardian society’s class divisions, hypocrisy, and lack of empathy. Priestley’s skillful use of dramatic irony and symbolism underscores the urgency of his message about social justice and collective responsibility.

In conclusion, “An Inspector Calls” remains a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with audiences, prompting reflection on ethical behavior, social justice, and the consequences of unchecked privilege. Priestley’s exploration of these themes through the microcosm of the Birling family’s evening of revelation serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion and accountability in a rapidly changing world.