An Inspector Calls is one of J.B. Priestley’s most famous and frequently studied plays, set in 1912 just before the First World War. The story centres on the wealthy Birling family, whose comfortable evening is interrupted by the arrival of a mysterious Inspector Goole.
The inspector investigates the death of a young woman, Eva Smith, gradually revealing how each family member played a role in her downfall. As the questioning continues, secrets are exposed and the family’s moral responsibility is challenged.
Priestley uses the play to explore themes such as social responsibility, class inequality, guilt, and the interconnectedness of society. The dramatic structure builds tension as the truth unfolds, forcing characters and audiences to reflect on their actions.
An Inspector Calls is widely studied in schools and literature courses. It is ideal for readers interested in modern drama, social commentary, and moral storytelling, offering a powerful critique of selfishness and a call for collective responsibility in society.
