Discrimination Between Classes and Social Status in “An Inspector Calls”

 

Discrimination Between Classes and Social Status in “An Inspector Calls”

“An Inspector Calls” by J.B. Priestley is a thought-provoking play that explores the theme of discrimination between social classes. Set in the early 20th century, the play depicts a wealthy upper-class family, the Birlings, as they are confronted by Inspector Goole regarding the suicide of a young working-class woman, Eva Smith. Through the characters’ interactions and the Inspector’s investigation, Priestley effectively highlights the deep-rooted discrimination and inequality prevalent in society at that time.

One of the primary forms of discrimination explored in the play is the stark contrast between the upper-class characters, such as the Birlings, and the lower-class individuals like Eva Smith. The Birlings are portrayed as wealthy capitalists who are more concerned with maintaining their social status and reputation than with the well-being of others. They dismiss the concerns of the less privileged and view them as inconsequential. This class-based discrimination is exemplified when Sheila Birling is denied a job at Milward’s simply because she had earlier made a complaint against one of their employees (who happened to be Eva Smith). This incident highlights how social status and connections held more weight than merit or qualifications.

Additionally, Priestley uses the character of Arthur Birling to represent the capitalist mindset that perpetuates discrimination. Birling, a wealthy factory owner, embodies the callousness and indifference of the upper class towards those beneath them. He dismisses any notion of social responsibility and emphasizes individualism and profit. Birling’s outlook is evident when he says, “a man has to make his own way—has to look after himself—and his family too, of course, when he has one.” This statement reveals his belief in self-interest above all else and his lack of empathy for the lower class.

Furthermore, Priestley uses the Inspector as a vehicle to challenge these discriminatory attitudes and expose the consequences of such behavior. The Inspector represents a voice of conscience and social justice. His relentless questioning unravels the Birlings’ secrets and exposes their collective guilt. By making each character confront their individual role in Eva Smith’s tragic fate, the Inspector forces them to confront their own prejudices and biases. The Inspector’s parting words, “We are responsible for each other,” serve as a powerful reminder that society cannot progress without addressing issues of inequality and discrimination.

In conclusion, “An Inspector Calls” effectively portrays discrimination between social classes and highlights the negative consequences it has on society. Priestley’s play serves as a critique of the capitalist mindset prevalent during that time, which perpetuated inequality and indifference towards those less fortunate. By exposing the discriminatory attitudes of the upper class through the characters and using the Inspector as a moral compass, Priestley urges us to reflect on our own actions and work towards creating a more egalitarian society.