An inspector calls is a controversial play, written by J.B Priestly in 1945. Set in 1912, the controversial play includes certain touches of power between characters and scenes. This is highlighted through the power of status, power of law and morality, the power of money and of power and responsibility, that are particularly highlighted through an inspector calls in depth and how each character is shown to be linked to various elements of power through the play whilst analysing it.
Power and responsibility is a theme that is thoroughly highlighted through the play of An Inspector Calls. During the play, Sheila and Eric understand the power of responsibility as they have a high sense of knowledge and are aware that they may be slightly responsible for the suicide, and don’t argue with the inspector for this, they also have a small amount of power over their family and cope well when dealing with these sorts of incidents as they are much younger and were brought up to know what responsibility is, however Mr and Mrs Birling do not learn about responsibility and chose not to accept the fact that they might be partly responsible for the sudden death of a girl called Eva Smith and that it was in their own rights to do what they did, “Still, I can’t accept and responsibility.” (Act 1, scene 1, page 14) On the other hand, Gerald, despite his age is similar to the Birling’s because of his high class, wealth and upbringing, therefore it is shown that he had been brought up so that he does not learn about responsibility. “I don’t come into this suicide business.” (Act 1, Scene 1, Page 26)
The power of money is touched on through An Inspector Calls as Birling believes money and class can take him to a higher status and accommodate more power into his working life to other people and for himself. “Just a knighthood of course.” (Act 1, Scene 1, Page 8) Birling believes that money can also buy him his class. Through the play he repeats his success a number of