I’ve created a list of advanced GCSE An Inspector Calls vocabulary. If used correctly, your writing will be more sophisticated and surely would impress the examiners. Along with the definitions, I’ve also provided you with examples of how to include the words in your writing.
Mouthpiece
Definition: someone who expresses or advocates the opinions or beliefs of another person or group, often acting as their spokesperson.
Example
In An Inspector Calls, Inspector Goole serves as the mouthpiece for J.B. Priestley’s social and moral message. Through the Inspector, Priestley conveys his views on social responsibility and the need for collective accountability. Inspector Goole’s assertion, “We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other,” encapsulates Priestley’s socialist beliefs. The Inspector is used as a mouthpiece to challenge the selfishness and moral blindness of the Birling family and the society at large.
Collectivist
Definition: a social or political ideology that emphasises the importance of the group over the individual, advocating for communal ownership and collective responsibility
Example
The concept of collectivism is highlighted through the character of the Inspector, who confronts the Birling family about their moral responsibilities towards others in society. The play critiques the individualistic attitudes of the wealthy, showing how their actions have far-reaching consequences on the lives of the less privileged, thus advocating for a more collective approach to social responsibility and empathy.
Didactic
Definition– something that is intended to teach, particularly in having a moral instructive purpose.
Example
The play is didactic as it conveys important social lessons about responsibility, social justice, and the interconnectedness of individuals within society. Through the character of the Inspector and the unfolding dramatic revelations, Priestley aims to educate both the characters and the audience about the consequences of their actions on others, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate and collectively responsible society.
Prophetic
Definition: something that foresees or predicts future events, often conveying a sense of wisdom or insight.
Example
Inspector Goole serves a prophetic role, as he forewarns the Birling family about the potential repercussions of their actions and values. His insights highlight the societal changes that are imminent, especially regarding class and social responsibility. For example, when he states, “If men will not learn that lesson, then they will be taught in fire, blood, and anguish,” he foreshadows the tragic consequences of failing to recognise their collective responsibility, suggesting that without change, society is doomed to suffer. This prophetic element serves to challenge the audience to reflect on their own moral choices.
Unionist
Definition: someone who supports the Union, typically referring to the political union between England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, or someone who advocates for workers’ rights through trade unions.
Example
Eva Smith’s connection to unions is significant; she was a member of a workers’ union striving for better wages and working conditions at Birling’s factory. When she sought fair treatment after being unjustly dismissed, her plea reflects the struggles of the working class and the importance of collective action, highlighting the themes of social injustice and class conflict central to the play. Eva’s activism underscores her role as a victim of a capitalist system that prioritises profit over people.
Socialist
Definition: someone who advocates for social ownership and democratic control of the means of production, as well as broader social equality and justice.
Example
The contrasting viewpoints of characters like Arthur Birling, who represents capitalist ideals, and Inspector Goole, who embodies socialist values, highlight the tension between these two philosophies. Inspector Goole’s emphasis on social responsibility and the interconnection of society is a critique of the individualism that Birling champions. For instance, when he asserts that “we are members of one body,” he encapsulates the socialist belief in collective responsibility, urging the Birling family to acknowledge their role in the suffering of individuals like Eva Smith. This clash serves to advocate for social change and awareness of the consequences of one’s actions within a community.
Remorseful
Definition: feeling deep regret or guilt for a wrong committed.
Example
Sheila Birling exhibits remorse after realising her role in the demise of Eva Smith, particularly when she admits to having had Eva fired from her job out of jealousy and a desire for control. Throughout the play, Sheila transitions from a naive, privileged young woman to someone who genuinely understands the impact of her actions on others. Her remorse is evident when she expresses shame and a longing for change, showing her moral awakening and willingness to accept accountability, which contrasts starkly with other characters’ attitudes, particularly her father, Arthur. This development highlights the play’s central themes of social responsibility and the moral implications of one’s actions.
Callous
Definition: being emotionally insensitive or unfeeling; it describes a person who shows a lack of empathy or concern for the feelings and suffering of others.
Example:
The character of Arthur Birling exemplifies callousness through his dismissive attitude towards the working class and lack of empathy for those less fortunate, particularly in his treatment of Eva Smith. He prioritises profit over people, demonstrating a cold disregard for the consequences of his business decisions. This callousness is further emphasised during Inspector Goole’s revelations; while characters like Sheila show remorse, Birling’s insistence on maintaining his views highlights the play’s critique of selfish capitalism and its moral implications. Ultimately, the callous nature of characters like Birling serves to underscore the need for social responsibility and compassion in society.
Capitalist
Definition: A capitalist is an individual or entity that invests capital—money or assets—in a business or enterprise with the expectation of earning a profit. Capitalism, as an economic system, is characterised by private ownership of the means of production, market competition, and the pursuit of profit, with minimal government intervention.
Conservative
Definition: “Conservative” typically refers to a political or social philosophy that seeks to maintain traditional institutions, values, and practices. Conservatives often advocate for limited government, individual liberties, and a free-market economy, while emphasising stability, order, and gradual change rather than radical reforms. The specific meanings can vary based on cultural and national contexts.
Example
Mr. Birling embodies capitalist and conservative values, primarily through his emphasis on self-reliance and individual success. A notable quote that reflects this is when he asserts, “A man has to make his own way—has to look after himself,” highlighting his belief in capitalism’s core tenets and a conservative ideology that prioritises personal responsibility and wealth accumulation over social welfare. This perspective not only shapes his character but also the family’s dynamic and attitudes toward social issues.
Obstinate
Definition: stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or chosen course of action, despite attempts to persuade one to do so.
Example
Mrs. Birling embodies obstinacy through her unwavering belief in social class superiority and her rigid adherence to traditional values, as seen in her dismissive attitude towards those she considers beneath her. This is illustrated when she states, “I did my duty. I suppose it was inevitable.” Her refusal to recognise her role in Eva Smith’s plight and her obstinate insistence that the lower classes are undeserving of help highlight her lack of empathy and her commitment to the status quo, which ultimately reflects the play’s critique of social inequality and moral blindness.
Industrialist
Definition: a person involved in the ownership or management of an industrial enterprise, often embodying themes of capitalism and social responsibility.
Example
Arthur Birling epitomizes the industrialist, representing the upper capitalist class. His line, “We’re in for a time of steadily increasing prosperity,” reflects his self-assured belief in capitalism’s triumph. The Inspector’s critique of Birling’s attitudes, emphasizing social responsibility, highlights the moral implications of industrialism and class disparity, contrasting Birling’s values with the need for social awareness and collective responsibility.
Suffragette Movement
Definition: The suffragette movement was a social and political campaign to grant women the right to vote, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Example
Eva Smith symbolises the struggles faced by women, reflecting the broader social and economic inequalities of the time, including those highlighted by the suffragettes. Eva’s fight for fair wages at Birling & Co. and her subsequent dismissal after advocating for herself echoes the themes of women’s empowerment and rights.
Omniscient
Definition: having complete or unlimited knowledge, awareness, or understanding of all things.
Example
This concept links to Inspector Goole in J.B. Priestley’s play “An Inspector Calls,” as he possesses a seemingly all-knowing insight into the characters’ lives and their actions. The Inspector’s ability to unveil secrets and truths that the Birling family attempts to conceal positions him as a moral authority, guiding the audience through the unfolding revelations and emphasising themes of social responsibility and collective guilt. His omniscient nature challenges the characters’ (and the audience’s) perceptions of justice and morality.
Petulant
Definition: a childishly sulky or bad-tempered behaviour.
Example
Eric often reacts impulsively and defensively when confronted about his actions. For instance, when he exclaims, “I don’t care,” it reveals his immature and petulant attitude, indicating his unwillingness to take responsibility. Additionally, his erratic outbursts and attempts to dismiss the Inspector’s questioning further showcase his petulance, emphasising his struggles with self-control and accountability throughout the play.
Narcissistic
Definition: an excessive admiration or love for oneself, often characterised by a lack of empathy for others and an inflated sense of one’s own importance.
Example
Gerald Croft can be seen as narcissistic. He exhibits self-centred behaviour, particularly in his relationship with Eva Smith, where he uses her for his own gratification while showing little regard for her feelings or well-being. Gerald’s focus on his desires and the way he tries to justify his actions reveal his inability to connect with the consequences of his actions on others, reinforcing the theme of self-absorption prevalent in the play.
Morality
Definition: the principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behaviour, often shaped by societal norms and personal ethics.
Example
In J.B. Priestley’s “An Inspector Calls,” morality is a central theme, particularly as it relates to social responsibility and the consequences of one’s actions. The Inspector functions as a moral authority, challenging the Birling family’s ethical beliefs and their willingness to disregard the needs of others, specifically through their treatment of Eva Smith. Each character’s reaction to their moral failures serves to highlight the play’s critique of individualism and capitalism, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility and the impact of personal choices on society. Ultimately, the play encourages the audience to reflect on their own moral obligations toward one another.
Materialistic
Definition: focuses on material possessions and physical comfort over spiritual or intellectual values.
Example
Sheila Birling’s materialism is evident when she expresses her excitement and concern over her engagement ring. She says, “I’m sorry, Daddy. I had to take it out of the box. It was simply a piece of metal,” This reflects her initial focus on the engagement ring as a status symbol rather than its emotional significance, highlighting her materialistic tendencies at the start of the play.
Fraudulent
Definition: involving deception, particularly to gain something of value or to mislead others.
Example
Eric Birling is fraudulent in several ways, primarily through his deceitful actions and irresponsible behaviour. He engages in a manipulative relationship with Eva Smith, initially presenting himself as a gentleman while secretly exploiting her vulnerability. His act of stealing money from his father’s business to support her is emblematic of his betrayal and lack of integrity. Moreover, Eric’s attempt to conceal the truth about his involvement with Eva—claiming ignorance about the consequences of his actions—highlights his fraudulent nature, as he seeks to evade responsibility. Ultimately, Eric embodies the theme of moral hypocrisy, showcasing the consequences of self-serving and deceptive behaviour.
Sheltered
Definition: being protected from the harsh realities of life, often leading to a lack of experience or understanding of the world.
Example
In An Inspector Calls, Eric is portrayed as a sheltered young man who has been cushioned by his family’s wealth and privilege. His sheltered upbringing leaves him naïve and ill-prepared to face the real world, as evidenced by his reckless actions with Eva Smith. His excessive drinking and irresponsible behaviour reflect his immaturity, and his lack of awareness of the consequences of his actions shows how his sheltered life has prevented him from developing a deeper sense of responsibility or understanding.
Coward
Definition: a person who is contemptibly lacking in the courage to do or endure dangerous or unpleasant things.
Example
In An Inspector Calls, Eric can be described as a coward for his irresponsible behaviour and his initial refusal to face the consequences of his actions. His drinking, theft of money, and treatment of Eva Smith highlight his immaturity and lack of courage. Eric’s admission, “I wasn’t in love with her or anything – but I liked her – she was pretty and a good sport,” shows how he cowardly took advantage of Eva without considering the harm he was causing. Throughout much of the play, Eric avoids responsibility, hiding behind alcohol and lies, demonstrating his cowardice in dealing with the situation.
Static
Definition: something that is unchanging, unmoving, or resistant to development or progress.
Example
Mr Birling can be described as a static character because his views and attitudes remain largely unchanged throughout the play. Despite the revelations about his role in Eva Smith’s demise, he clings to his capitalist and self-serving beliefs, showing little personal growth or moral reflection. His refusal to acknowledge any responsibility, saying “I can’t accept any responsibility,” highlights his static nature, as he remains stubborn and immovable in his outlook, even after being confronted with the consequences of his actions.
Philandering
Definition: refers to the act of engaging in casual, often deceitful, romantic or sexual relationships, especially by someone who is already in a committed relationship. It implies a lack of seriousness or moral responsibility in one’s romantic dealings.
Example
In An Inspector Calls, Gerald can be described as philandering in his relationship with Daisy Renton (Eva Smith), despite being engaged to Sheila Birling. His affair with Daisy highlights his willingness to exploit his power and status for personal gratification. Although Gerald claims he helped Daisy out of kindness, his romantic involvement with her while engaged to Sheila reflects his philandering nature, as he says, “I became at once the most important person in her life,” suggesting how he took advantage of the vulnerable young woman for his desires, without regard for his fiancée or the consequences.
Emblematic
Definition: serving as a symbol
Example
Eva Smith in An Inspector Calls is emblematic of the exploited and powerless working class, representing the countless individuals who suffer under the selfishness of the wealthy. Her character serves as a symbol of the social inequalities that existed in Edwardian society, and she never appears on stage, making her more of an idea or representation than an individual. She is mistreated by each of the Birlings and Gerald, embodying the consequences of their actions and attitudes.
The Inspector’s final speech, in which he says, “There are millions and millions and millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths still left with us,” drives home the point that Eva is emblematic of the broader working-class population, suffering silently under an indifferent upper class. The repetition emphasises how common her story is, making her more than just one individual—she represents a class, a gender, and a social issue.
Grandiose
The Birling home is described as grandiose, with its “fairly large suburban house” and “substantial and heavily comfortable but not cosy and homelike reflecting the family’s wealth and social status. The house, though elegant, carries a sense of cold grandeur, where luxury overshadows comfort, mirroring the family’s desire to project importance and power. Its grandiosity physically represents the Birlings’ aspirations and their obsession with maintaining a facade of success.
Nouveau Riche
Definition: nouveau riche is a French term that means “new rich” and refers to people who have recently acquired wealth but are often seen as lacking the refinement, social status, or cultural traditions associated with old money. It is sometimes used slightly negatively or condescendingly to describe people who may flaunt their wealth in an extravagant or ostentatious manner, as they try to establish themselves in high society.
Example:
The Birlings are portrayed as a nouveau riche family, newly elevated to wealth and eager to assert their social standing. Their lavish home and ostentatious lifestyle reflect their desire to fit into high society, though their lack of refinement and manners occasionally betray their humble origins. Mr. Birling, in particular, embodies the mindset of the nouveau riche, focusing on material success and status while neglecting the deeper values and traditions associated with the established upper class. Their wealth may be recent, but their eagerness to flaunt it highlights their insecurity in truly belonging.
Find more on An Inspector Calls here:
GCSE English Literature- An Inspector Calls: Summary
GCSE English Literature- An Inspector Calls- Eva Smith
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