JB Priestley: An Inspector Calls

How far does Priestley present male characters as irresponsible in the play?

Write about:
• one or more of the male character(s)
• how far Priestley presents one or more of the male character(s) as irresponsible.

1. **Introduction:** State your argument. Agree that Priestley presents the male characters as largely irresponsible, and outline which characters you will focus on (e.g., Mr Birling, Gerald, Eric). 2. **Paragraph 1 (Mr Birling):** Analyse Mr Birling's irresponsibility. Focus on his refusal to accept any blame for Eva's death, his focus on business ('lower costs and higher prices'), and his dismissal of social responsibility. Use key quotes to support your points. 3. **Paragraph 2 (Gerald Croft):** Discuss Gerald's irresponsibility. Analyse his affair with Daisy Renton. While he may have shown some kindness, he ultimately abandoned her. Explore his alignment with Mr Birling at the end of the play, showing his failure to learn. 4. **Paragraph 3 (Eric Birling):** Explore Eric's irresponsibility. Discuss his heavy drinking, his forcing himself on Eva, and his theft of money from his father's business. This is a clear example of irresponsible behaviour driven by privilege and lack of guidance. 5. **Paragraph 4 (A Counterargument/Nuance):** Consider how Eric's character develops. Does he become more responsible? Contrast his emotional reaction and acceptance of guilt ('the fact remains I did what I did') with the attitudes of Gerald and his father. This shows that Priestley doesn't present all men as incapable of change. 6. **Conclusion:** Summarise your argument. Conclude that Priestley uses the irresponsible actions of his male characters to critique the patriarchal and capitalist society of 1912, suggesting that such behaviour leads to tragic consequences for the vulnerable.