An Inspector Calls: Character Profiles
Arthur Birling
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Desperate for social status and respectability, but endorses the capitalist views that Priestley criticises.
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Showed little remorse for his part in Eva Smith's predicament, further highlighting his complacency and stubbornness.
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His incorrect predictions about the Titanic and World War I underline his ignorance in the macrocosm of society.
Sheila Birling
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Undergoes the greatest transformation throughout the play, accepting and understanding her culpability in Eva’s demise.
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Embodies responsibility by the play's end, which Priestley aimed to instil in his audience.
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Sheila's character is utilised to illustrate the younger generation’s open-mindedness to socialism, contrasting with her parent's rigidity.
Gerald Croft
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Is symbolic of the young upper class; whilst appearing progressive, he remains deeply conservative.
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His affair with Daisy Renton proves his disregard for the sanctity of his relationship with Sheila.
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Represents how the wealthy can manipulate vulnerable individuals and avoid consequences due to their privileged status.
Eric Birling
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Portrayed as a 'half-shy, half-assertive' character. His excessive drinking points to his unhappiness with his position in life.
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His theft from Mr Birling’s business and his impregnation of Eva Smith reveal the entitlement and irresponsibility inherent within his character.
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However, like Sheila, shows a willingness to accept his guilt and change his ways, demonstrating Priestley’s optimism for younger generations.
Mrs Birling
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Exemplifies the rigid class and gender prejudice prevalent in Edwardian society.
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Holds an unfounded high regard for her own morals, yet her cold dismissal of Eva’s predicament contradicts her self-perception.
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Does not accept any responsibility for Eva's death, thus Priestley uses her to symbolise the upper class's indifference to the plight of the working class.
Inspector Goole
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Regarded as Priestley's mouthpiece, personifying the principles of socialism in his insistence on social responsibility.
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His enigmatic identity leaves room for interpretation – perhaps metaphorically suggesting fate, conscience or divine intervention.
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Ratchets up the tension dramatically with his questioning technique; employs comprehensive knowledge of events to break down the Birlings' and Gerald's complacency.