How Does Priestley Present the Inspector in an Inspector Calls?

In the play 'An Inspector Calls', many contrasts and paradox's are present and at the centre of them all is the character known as Inspector Goole. However, the inspector is not any ordinary inspector. I believe that the inspector is used as a device by Priestley to explore the wider themes of the play and to depict other characters true personalities. This essay will explore some of the techniques Priestley presents the inspector in An Inspector Calls. One of the ways Priestley presents the inspector is through his physical appearance. In the play, we are given a very detailed description of what the inspector should look like and act on stage. Priestley says "the inspector need not be a big man but he creates at once creates at once an impression of massiveness, solidity and purposefulness". The way that Priestley does not make the inspector a big man, yet he still has to create an impression of massiveness and solidity, makes the inspector seem confident and even though he lacks intimidation from his size, his personality and mannerisms make up for this. As well as this, the way that he creates an impression of "purposefulness" gives a very professional and confident impression to the audience. From the description given of the inspector when he first enters the story, we can gather that Priestley is trying to portray the inspector as a very proud, confident individual whilst being very professional and good at the job at hand. This also relates to the theme of morality through his mannerisms and his professionalism. The inspector enters the play with this confidence and purposefulness about him as well as dressing as one would expect someone of authority to dress, giving the audience a sense of trust towards him. I believe Priestley makes the audience believe that he is a moral person as the inspector plays the role of a true inspector well; dressing correctly and as expected and turning down the offer of a glass of alcohol, giving the audience a false