Compare and contrast the different generations in 'an Inspector calls'

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Compare and contrast the different generation’s response to the Inspector

        The different characters in ‘an inspector calls’ fall within different generation categories. The young being Eric ad Sheila, the old being Arthur and Sybil and Gerald who lies in between these two. They all have differing reactions to the inspector’s presence and I believe the link is in their ages or generations.

        An Inspector Calls was written in 1946 but set in 1912. At a time when capitalism was ruling the country and people like Arthur Birling effectively rule the country. The setting of the play was very significant as it allowed the use of dramatic irony, especially when Birling speaks about the future. “We’re in a time for a time of steadily increasing prosperity”. As the audience knew what the future held for the people in the play they get an instant dislike for Birling as an arrogant, capitalist factory owner.        

The younger generation, Eric and Sheila respond to the inspector’s presence very differently to their parents. Sheila responds to the inspector’s interrogation very honestly and openly. “(Miserably) so I’m really responsible?” Instantly she accepts the blame and places it all on herself. This is a perfect example of how the younger generation reacts to the inspector. They don’t lash out at him or try and shift the blame; they understand their part and accept the blame. Eric’s response is later in the play but similar. “You know don’t you?” This quote comes from the beginning of act three. This question isn’t defensive, asking if they know or not but it’s rhetorical. Eric knows the inspector already knows the facts about him and Eva and he feels responsible. “Oh my god, how stupid it all is” This is where Eric really accepts what he has done and the mistakes he has made. He doesn’t shirk the responsibility but sees the error of his ways. Both of the younger characters wish they could have gone back and changed their actions.

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The older generation, Arthur and Sybil respond to the inspector’s interrogation in almost the opposite manner to their children. Arthur Birling is the first member of the family to be interrogated. The inspector questions him about Eva and why she was fired from the factory. “Well, Inspector, I don’t see that it’s any concern of yours how I chose to run my business. Is it now?” Arthur sees his actions as ‘strictly business’ he doesn’t seem to care how the events affected the girl; he sees her firing as a business matter and nothing more. His acceptance of responsibility is ...

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This essay makes some good points about the roles and purposes of different characters and links and comparisons are made to enhance the analysis. There should be further reference to the structure of the play and how it is used to shape meaning and some of the interpretations made could have been developed in far more depth. 4 Stars