An Inspector Calls

Synopsis

A respectable household is shocked when a strange man visits them shortly after dinner and proceeds to unravel their prejudices and lies.

Summary

Chapter 1: A Dinner Party

The Birling family and their guests are enjoying a celebratory dinner when the doorbell rings and an Inspector Goole arrives. Goole announces that a young woman named Eva Smith has died, and he has come to investigate her connection to the family.

* Real Example: The Birling family's initial reaction is one of nonchalance, believing the matter is unrelated to them. However, as the Inspector reveals more information, they begin to worry that they may be implicated.

Chapter 2: Sheila's Story

The Inspector interviews Sheila Birling, the daughter of the family. She admits that she fired Eva from her job at a department store because of her suspicions that Eva was pregnant out of wedlock.

* Real Example: Sheila's actions demonstrate the social stigma attached to unwed pregnancies in the early 20th century. Her decision to fire Eva is driven by fear and judgment.

Chapter 3: Gerald's Story

Gerald Croft, Sheila's fiancé, reveals that he had an affair with Eva after meeting her at a bar. He admits to having shared confidential information with her and giving her money, but he denies knowing that she was in financial distress.

* Real Example: Gerald's behavior highlights the sexual double standards of the time. His extramarital affair is treated as less serious than Eva's pregnancy, despite the consequences it had on her life.

Chapter 4: Mrs. Birling's Story

Mrs. Birling, the matriarch of the family, is adamant that she is innocent. She refuses to believe that Eva's pregnancy was legitimate and claims to have helped her secure a place in a charity home.

* Real Example: Mrs. Birling's prejudiced views reveal the hypocrisy and indifference of the upper classes towards the less fortunate. Her actions compound Eva's suffering and ultimately contribute to her death.

Chapter 5: Eric's Story

Eric Birling, the son of the family, confesses that he met Eva at a pub and had a drunken relationship with her. He reveals that Eva had stolen money from him, which he initially denied to the Inspector.

* Real Example: Eric's actions demonstrate the recklessness and immaturity of youth. His involvement with Eva and his subsequent lies highlight the consequences of irresponsible behavior.

Chapter 6: The Inspector's Speech

After hearing the individual stories, the Inspector delivers a powerful speech condemning the family's lack of empathy and responsibility. He accuses them of creating a chain of events that led to Eva's suicide.

* Real Example: The Inspector's speech serves as a social commentary on the evils of capitalism, indifference, and prejudice. He emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility and the consequences of failing to take into account the needs of others.

Chapter 7: The Aftermath

As the Inspector exits, the Birling family is left stunned and shaken. Gerald and Sheila realize that their relationship is built on lies, while Mr. and Mrs. Birling are forced to confront their own moral failings.

* Real Example: The play's final moments leave open the question of whether the Birlings have truly learned from their mistakes. Their superficial apology and attempt to dismiss the event show that they are still struggling with the implications of the Inspector's visit.