WORDS THEY USE IN EXAMS?

METHODS:

April 12, 2023 1

•If the question says methods what do I talk about?

•Language (formal and informal language of characters shows what? /Use of symbolism / imagery/dramatic irony)

•Structure (Time repeats itself in play/whodunit gradually reveals characters involvement creating tension/ splitting apart family)

•Stage Directions (Lighting/props/photo/doorbell/setting)

•Tone / Style: Satire – criticizing views of certain people in society in 1912-1945, morality play , whodunit

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• For example:

• Stage- Directions

• Refer to the lighting of the room, how it sets the tone of the play. What does the description rose-tinted mean to you?

• why Inspector Goole visits

• One or two sentences about Gerald’s discovery of the Inspector later in the play

Style /Tone

This is a Morality Play:

Instruct audiences about how man should choose to be good over the temptations of evil.

THE DOORBELL AS A DRAMATIC DEVICE P11

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“a man has to mind his own business and look after himself and his own- and-”

We hear the sharp ring of a doorbell

“That’ll stop me giving you good advice… feeling contented, for once, I wanted you to have the benefit of my experience.”

The doorbell stops Birling’s pompous speech; it is almost a signal for the audience, indicating that there is going to be a sudden end to his selfish ways.

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“unless Eric’s been up to something…”

This little comment creates tension, the title of the play and Eric’s reaction to these words suggest that there has been some sort of crime committed.

“Give us some more light” p11

The word light can be taken metaphorically or literally; light as in turning on a lamp or light as in finding out the truth. Compare this comment to the ‘pink’ lighting on page 1. Have you ever heard the saying ‘rose-tinted glasses’?

INSPECTOR GOOLE’S ARRIVAL

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“Creates an impression of massiveness, solidity and purposefulness… plain darkish suit.” p11

His description creates a serious character, the word ‘purposefulness’ suggests that he has a job to do and he will get it done. The audience expect this character to create some action in the play. The inspector is a catalyst (creates movement, action) for the events in the play.

April 12, 2023M MULLIGAN FPHS 6

The name Goole is also a homophone (a word that sounds the same as another) for the word ghoul. How do his actions and description live up to this idea that he is almost ghost-like? What impression does he give the audience?

“(Cutting through massively)” p12

Again, he interrupts bumbling Birling, reminding us of the doorbell and the powerful presence he has in the room.

MR BIRLING’S ATTEMPTS TO INTIMIDATE THE INSPECTOR

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“Perhaps I ought to warn you that he’s an old friend of mine… we play golf together…” p16

This comment shows how pretentious Birling is. He thinks that his position in society gives him power, even over the law.

Also, the fact that the inspector doesn’t “see much” of Chief Constable Colonel Roberts and the emphasis on his name (the inspector even spells it out), are little hints that suggest he may have a ghost like quality about him. The audience feel the sense of mystery about him.

THE PHOTOGRAPH(S)?

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“Inspector: interposes himself between them (Eric and Gerald) and the photograph” p12

“one person at a time, that’s the way I like to do things.” p12

Shows he is very thorough and in control. He is also showing his authority to the Birling’s; they are used to being in charge, look at Birling’s threats earlier. Imagine you are sat in the audience, someone whispers to their friend next to them; ‘what if there is more than one photo?’ What is the reaction of the audience?

Also, think about what happens when each person is shown a photo. The audience begin to associate this prop with bad news.

SHEILA’S EXIT P21

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“Sheila: (staring at him agitated) when was this?

Inspector: (impressively) At the end of January- last year”

Actions are a major part of a play, they add tension to a scene. Sheila’s reaction immediately tells the audience that she had some part in Eva’s sacking, it also shows her upset and worry at being involved in a young girl’s death.

Look at the inspector’s actions, what does the word impressively mean?

P21

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Inspector: …I’ll show youHe moves nearer a light… she crosses to him… These stage directions or actions create a

slight pause before the photo is shown to Sheila. The audience are waiting with anticipation, they are expecting a reaction or some sort of acknowledgement from Sheila. Again, the use of light refers to the truth coming about.

..she looks closely, recognises it with a little cry, gives a half-stifled sob, and then runs out

Sheila’s reaction is very different to Birling’s. Why do you think this is? The movement on such a composed and still stage adds more drama and excitement to the scene.

THEN EVERYONE LEAVES APART FROM GERALD AND ERIC

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P21 Gerald: I’d like to have a look at that photo now…

Inspector: all in good time

p22 Inspector to Eric:If you turn in, you might have to turn out again

soon

The contrast of the dramatic exit of Sheila, followed by her father, and the uncomfortable and calm moment after he has left creates a lot of tension. The words exchanged between Eric, Gerald and the inspector ‘hook’ the audience in, they are now waiting or expecting to see how Eric and Gerald are implicated in Eva Smith’s death.

INSPECTOR’S FINAL COMMENTARY AND HIS FINAL EXIT P55

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“Inspector: (taking charge, masterfully) Stop!”This sudden outburst from such a calm and

controlled character grabs the attention of the Birlings and the audience. The contrasting quietness after the squabbling of the family creates an ideal atmosphere for the purposeful speech from the inspector.

As he speaks to them one by one, you can imagine them lined up like a police inspection, this is a reminder for the audience, how each of them were involved in the death of a young woman before we are expected to make a final decision as to who is guilty. Who killed Eva Smith?

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“Just remember this…there are millions and millions and millions of Eva Smiths and John Smiths still left with us…We are members of one body… If men will not learn that lesson then they will be taught it in fire, and blood and anguish.”

There is a message for the Birlings as well as the audience. What does the inspector mean by fire, blood and anguish? Who or what is the inspector? How does this speech contrast with Birling’s first speech on pages 9&10?

Have the Birling’s learned their lesson?

WHAT ARE THE BIRLING’S THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS TOWARDS THEIR ACTIONS?HAVE THEY LEARNED THEIR LESSON?

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1. Find two quotes to show each of the family’s reactions. One when the inspector is in the room and another when he has left. Are their reactions sincere (do they really feel bad about what has happened)?

2. Why do the younger members of the family seem to have more sympathy and understanding than Sybil and Birling? (Think about the historical and social context.)

C GRADE OR ABOVE:

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• (P)Priestley portrays the character of Arthur Birling as foolish and arrogant when he describes the Titanic as (E)‘absolutely unsinkable.’ (E) Priestly here uses dramatic irony to emphasize Birling’s misplaced over confidence in technological advancement. The audience watching in 1945 know that he will be proved incorrect by the events of 1912. Effectively this use of irony undermines his other comments such as… and makes us question his judgement and nature.

SELFISHNESS: MRS BIRLING

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• (P) Mrs Birling is portrayed by Priestley as an extremely selfish and vindictive woman (E) “She seemed to be not a good case and I used my influence to have it refused” (E) Her comments reveal to the audience how she is willing to abuse her power or ‘influence’ based on her prejudices towards Eva and women of the lower classes. Effectively her charity work is just a mask to enhance her reputation and alleviate her conscience like. In my opinion her real motives are self interest and when she takes personal offence to Eva’s ‘impertinent’ use of her surname she is determined to get her turned down.