An Inspector Calls: Themes

A critique of class: The story sets out to expose the inherent flaws and injustices of a class-based society. The Birlings represent the toxic upper-class mentality that led to Eva Smith’s exploitation and subsequent tragic death.
The facade of respectability: The Birlings’ seemingly perfect family image is a guise used to hide their actions. The unfolding events reveal their actual lack of moral and societal responsibility.

Power

Misuse of power: Many characters misuse their power, leading to Eva’s downfall. Mr Birling uses his influence to fire her, Gerald exploits his position to take advantage of her, and Mrs Birling denies her help from the charity.
Challenge of patriarchal power: The play challenges the patriarchal power structures of the time. Inspector Goole is the embodiment of the challenge to these structures, particularly Mr Birling’s.

Collective versus individual responsibility: J.B. Priestley strongly advocates for collective responsibility throughout the play. Eva’s demise is not the result of one single act but the combined negligence and cruelty of several individuals.
Contrasting attitudes to responsibility: The younger characters, Sheila and Eric, accept and feel guilt for their actions, while their parents continue to shrug off any blame for Eva’s death.

Inspector’s prophetic qualities: The Inspector’s knowledge of future events and the final twist lend him an eerie, almost supernormal character, contributing to the overall suspense in the play.
Juxtaposition of time: The play’s structure handles time in a non-linear manner, further adding to the idea of unavoidable karma and the cyclic nature of man’s actions.

Female exploitation: The character of Eva Smith sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many women living in the patriarchal society of the time. Her exploitation is depicted vividly through her relationships with the male characters.
Emergence of feminism: Sheila’s character exhibits the emerging feminist ideas of that era. Her acceptance of responsibility represents a shift from the traditional women’s role to a more progressive standpoint.