The Wade Deacon English Department Podcast

Social Class in An Inspector Calls

"As if a girl of that sort would ever refuse money!" Mrs Birling insists. What does she mean by 'a girl of that sort' and how does Eva Smith's social standing inevitably contribute to her downfall? Ms Smith considers the role of social class in the text, and examines how J. B. Priestley's socialist views underpin the plot and characterisation. 

Responsibility in An Inspector Calls

"We have to share something," Inspector Goole warns the Birling family, "If there's nothing else, we'll have to share our guilt." What does he mean by this and what does it imply about the characters' failings? Ms Noone presents an analysis of the theme of responsibility and the moral message of An Inspector Calls. 

Gender in An Inspector Calls

Typically, An Inspector Calls is viewed as a play about social class and the juxtaposition of wealth and poverty. However, what about the role of gender? In this podcast, Ms Bray considers the theme of gender in the text and the varying roles of men and women in the context of the 1910s. 

The Role of Eva Smith

Despite not appearing once on stage, Eva Smith is arguably the most important character in the play - around whom nearly every single conversation centres. In this podcast, Ms Barker considers the tragic tale of Eva Smith and the mistreated underclass she represents. 

The Role of Gerald Croft

Mockingly referred to as a "wonderful fairy prince" by Sheila, Gerald attempted to help Eva Smith only to later cast her aside when she no longer interested him. But why did he do it? And what impact did it have on her demise? Ms Barker considers Gerald's significance. 

The Role of Sheila Birling

From "hysterical child" to arguably the strongest and most resolute character onstage, it cannot be denied that Sheila undergoes quite the transformation under the watchful eye of the inspector. Ms Archer investigates what Sheila represents about the divisions between old and young, man and woman and capitalist and socialist - and how, in the end, she transcends all expectations. 

The Role of Eric Birling

A foolish, drunken "boy" or a sinister character abusing his societal power? Mr Buxton delves into the character of Eric Birling and considers his significance in the text and the impact his thoughtless behaviour has on the people around him.

The Role of Mrs Birling

Despite her allegedly charitable nature, Mrs Birling rejected Eva Smith's plea for help when she needed it most. Why? Ms Jacob considers the role of Mrs Birling and the values she represents within the text.

The Role of Mr Birling

Patriarch, capitalist and hard-headed man of business, Mr Birling is the antithesis of everything J. B. Priestley stood for. So why did he construct this character and what does he represent? Ms O'Malley investigates. 

An Inspector Calls Plot Summary

Two job losses, two affairs, a pregnancy and a secret diary - the plot of An Inspector Calls is intricate and certainly worth knowing in as much detail as possible! In this podcast, Ms Griffiths takes us through the timeline of events and the impact these have on the characters.