'An Inspector Calls' has been called a play of social criticism. What is being criticised and how does Priestley use character dramatic devices and structures to convey his point of view?
             Written in 1945 J.B Priestley`s "An inspector calls" is set almost four decades previous in 1912 at the heart of the industrial revolution; Priestly introduces the recurring theme of the effect of an individuals actions over others. The play at first gives the impression of a detective thriller and later reveals itself as a morality tale, to which the inspector plays a vital role by introducing questions of accountability and moral ethics to each of the five characters.
             All three of the plays acts take place in the Birling`s dinning room, where the family are gathered by Arthur Birling, a wealthy bussinessman in celebration of his daughter Sheila's engagement to her fiancée Gerald Croft. Also in attendance are Edna (the maid) Sybil Birling (the mother) and Eric Birling (the son). The comfortable scene is interrupted by the arrival of the inspector, a abrupt man in his late fifties who is investigating the suicide of a female named Eva smith. He is harsh and intolerant in his questions and continually puts pressure on each of the characters until individually they reveal their involvement in the young woman's death.
             The inspector is the central character in the play and as such is the most influential. His entry into the play immediately disrupts the casual setting and after he leaves the repercussions of his actions are significantly felt. His character controls the play throughout, and due to several aspects employed by Priestly duration in the play is made the most important and memorable.
             The first method employed by Priestly happens at the start of the play. Before the inspector arrives the atmosphere is seemingly pleasant and joyful, the Birlings have a lot to be pleased with, for one Shelia's engagement to Gerald is a particular...