An Inspector Calls Key Theme: Capitalism vs Socialism (Edexcel GCSE English Literature) : Revision Note

Capitalism vs socialism timeline

The theme of capitalism versus socialism in each Act of An Inspector Calls:

What are the elements of capitalism vs socialism in An Inspector Calls?

Priestley presents capitalism vs socialism in An Inspector Calls through his characterisation: 

• The Inspector: Embodies socialism; his investigation and moralistic speeches condemn how the poor and impoverished are victims of capitalist greed

• Mr Birling and Gerald Croft: Represent the greedy industrialists who treat workers like Eva Smith as cheap labour and refuse to raise wages

• Eva Smith: Her tragic fate shows the destructive potential of capitalism: she was fired for seeking a living wage, and denied charity on the basis of her perceived worth

The impact of capitalism vs socialism on characters

Priestley, as a socialist, believed that wealth should be distributed throughout society, and that the wealthy and privileged have a responsibility to support the poorest in society. The play attacks the most selfish elements of capitalism by emphasising its amoral qualities:

Why does Priestley use the theme of capitalism vs socialism in his play?

1.  Setting and period

• Priestley underscores how the wealthiest in society enjoy privileges and lives of excess, but are blind to the effects of their actions on the less fortunate in society

• The play is a microcosm of capitalist society, set in an industrial city, in the home of a wealthy manufacturer

2. Plot driver 

• The play’s plot demonstrates what happens when powerful, greedy people prioritise money over the wellbeing of their fellow citizens

• For Priestley, Eva Smith represents “millions and millions and millions” of impoverished people, oppressed by an economic system that puts profit before people

3. Audience appeal 

• Priestley’s 1945 audience was a more progressive and responsible generation, aware of workers’ rights and the rights of women like Eva

• Mr and Mrs Birling and Gerald reflect an outdated ideology from which society was seeking to move away

Exam-style questions on the theme of capitalism vs socialism

Try planning a response to the following essay questions as part of your revision of this theme: 

•  Explore how Priestley presents different attitudes towards social responsibility in An Inspector Calls?

• How does Priestley use Mr Birling to represent capitalism in An Inspector Calls?