How Does Priestly Present Him?
An Inspector Calls is a play with lots of political messages as well as social messages. J. B. Priestley believed in socialism and he used large sections of his plays attempting to convince people of his way of thinking. It was written in a time when Britain was ruled by a Labour government and socialist policies were seen to be a good way to go. It was a common way of thinking at that time so Priestley's aim for the play may have been to influence the politically unsure in society.
The Inspector, straight from his beginning, is commanding and authoritative. Upon his entrance he creates an “impression of massiveness, solidity and purposefulness.” The Inspector continues to create this impression as he continues with his speeches and through his interrogation of the family. The Inspector remains confident and composed, while the family’s mentality and confidence deteriorates. His ‘solidity’ is proven by the fact he remains on task despite numerous attempts from Arthur to change the subject. The Inspector is told to appear ‘purposeful’ which is shown when he explains to Birling that Birling’s way of thinking “Every man must only look out for himself,” is not the case, and that everyone should look out for each other and help out. The view is best illustrated in the Inspectors final speech, where he says, “We don't live alone. We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other.” The significance of this quote is that it shows how he is only a voice for the real opinion of Priestley and that everything said and done by the Inspector is passionately believed in.
The Inspector is constantly showing Birling the error of his ways. He is the only person who makes things happen and keeps the whole story moving. Without the Inspector it is assumed that none of the secrets that were exposed would ever have come to light without the gentle nudges from the Inspector which