Introduction: Setting the Stage for Classism
“An Inspector Calls” by J.B. Priestley is a play that vividly portrays the classist society of Britain in the early 20th century. Set in 1912, just before the outbreak of World War I and during a time of stark class divisions, the play explores the attitudes and behaviours of characters from different social classes when confronted with the consequences of their actions. Through the character of Inspector Goole, Priestley critiques the classist nature of society and exposes the hypocrisy and callousness that often accompany rigid class structures.
The Birling Family: Aristocratic Arrogance and Classist Attitudes
At the heart of “An Inspector Calls” is the Birling family, an affluent and self-assured upper-middle-class household. Arthur Birling, the patriarch of the family, epitomizes the classist mindset prevalent among the wealthy elite of the time. What is however important to note is that Mr Birling himself actually came from relatively modest origins and even had to ‘marry up’ when he married his wife whose family have always been rich and higher up in the social hierarchy. Early in the play, he dismisses the idea of collective responsibility, stating, “A man has to mind his own business and look after himself and his own.” This statement encapsulates the selfish individualism often associated with the upper class, prioritizing personal gain over social responsibility.
Mrs. Birling, Arthur’s wife, further reinforces these classist attitudes through her condescending treatment of Eva Smith, a working-class woman who seeks assistance from the charity committee Mrs. Birling presides over. When Eva, using the alias “Mrs. Birling,” applies for help, Mrs. Birling denies her claim based solely on her perception of Eva’s demeanour and social status. She declares, “Girls of that class,” implying a prejudice against individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
Gerald Croft: Privilege and Complicity
Gerald Croft, who is engaged to the Birlings’ daughter Sheila, represents the privileged upper class that benefits from the existing social hierarchy. Despite his charm and affability, Gerald’s actions reveal a sense of entitlement and detachment from the struggles of those beneath his social stratum. His affair with Eva Smith, under the guise of providing her with financial support and shelter, highlights the exploitation that often occurs when individuals from different classes interact.
Gerald’s initial reaction to the Inspector’s questioning reflects his privileged mindset. He asserts, “I don’t come into this suicide business.” This statement underscores his attempt to distance himself from the consequences of his actions, showcasing a lack of accountability that is common among the privileged class.
Sheila Birling: Awakening to Social Consciousness
Sheila Birling undergoes significant character development throughout the play, transitioning from a naïve and superficial young woman to someone more attuned to social injustices. Her reaction to Eva Smith’s mistreatment at the hands of her family and fiancé marks a turning point in her awareness of classism. Sheila confronts her mother, stating, “But these girls aren’t cheap labour—they’re people.”
This realization signifies Sheila’s rejection of the dehumanizing attitudes prevalent among the upper class. Her empathy towards Eva Smith’s plight and her recognition of the inherent worth of individuals irrespective of their social standing challenge the classist norms upheld by her family and peers. Some feel it also indicates to Priestley’s belief that the younger generation of his audience are perhaps more idealistic and susceptible to change and thus making a better society than the generation just above them who are more entrenched and set in their ways.
Eric Birling: Rebellion and Redemption
Eric Birling, the younger son in the family, represents a rebellious streak against the classist values ingrained in his upbringing. His affair with Eva Smith and subsequent remorse for his actions reveal the moral conflict faced by individuals who question the status quo. Eric’s guilt and acknowledgment of his role in Eva’s downfall contrast sharply with the indifference exhibited by his parents and Gerald Croft.
When Eric realizes the impact of his behaviour on Eva’s life, he exclaims, “My God!—I’m not likely to forget.” This moment of reckoning underscores Eric’s departure from the callousness of his family members and his burgeoning understanding of social responsibility.
Inspector Goole: Catalyst for Change
Inspector Goole serves as the catalyst for exposing the classist attitudes and moral failings of the Birling family. His relentless interrogation and unwavering focus on justice reveal the hypocrisy and superficiality that often accompany wealth and privilege. Through his probing questions and revelations about Eva Smith’s interconnected experiences with each family member, the Inspector dismantles the façade of respectability maintained by the upper class.
One of the Inspector’s pivotal statements encapsulates the play’s critique of classism: “We don’t live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other.” This assertion challenges the individualistic mindset propagated by the upper class, advocating for a collective sense of responsibility and empathy towards all members of society. You have to remember Priestley was an active left-winger and ‘socialist’ i.e. who believed the government should spend a lot of its money on helping the poorer members of society including taxing the rich heavily if needed be. Needless to say being taxed a lot is not something the rich elite in many societies including Britain of the 1940s (when the play was written) or the 1910s (when the player was set) would have taken a liking to!
Classism and Britain in the Early 20th Century
“An Inspector Calls” not only critiques the classist attitudes of its characters but also serves as a reflection of broader societal issues in early 20th-century Britain. The rigid class hierarchy, characterized by stark divisions between the wealthy elite and the working class, contributed to systemic inequalities and injustices. The play exposes how individuals from privileged backgrounds often exploited and disregarded those lower down the social ladder, perpetuating cycles of poverty and suffering.
Priestley’s critique of classism in “An Inspector Calls” resonates with contemporary discussions on social justice and inequality. The play serves as a reminder that societal progress requires challenging entrenched power structures and fostering empathy and solidarity across class lines.
Conclusion: Lessons from “An Inspector Calls”
In conclusion, “An Inspector Calls” is a powerful exploration of classism and its impact on individuals and society. Through the lens of the Birling family and their interactions with Inspector Goole, J.B. Priestley highlights the moral bankruptcy of a classist mindset and advocates for collective responsibility and empathy. The play’s enduring relevance lies in its ability to provoke introspection and dialogue about issues of social justice and inequality, urging audiences to confront their own attitudes towards privilege, power, and social responsibility.