Robot Says…

J. B. Priestley uses the concept of community to highlight the interconnectedness of society and the moral responsibility individuals have to one another. The play serves as a critique of capitalist individualism and advocates for collective responsibility.
The character of Inspector Goole embodies the moral message of community and social responsibility. He states, "We are members of one body. We are responsible for each other," which directly conveys Priestley's central theme.
The contrast between the older generation, represented by Mr. Birling and Mrs. Birling, and the younger generation, Sheila and Eric, underscores differing attitudes towards community. Mr. Birling dismisses the idea of collective responsibility with, "A man has to make his own way – has to look after himself – and his family too," reflecting his self-centred capitalist values.
Sheila's transformation throughout the play shows her growing understanding of the importance of community. She acknowledges their collective guilt, saying, "Between us, we drove that girl to commit suicide."
The treatment of Eva Smith, a working-class woman, exemplifies the consequences of neglecting community values. The exploitation and mistreatment she endures from members of the Birling family highlights the harm caused by selfishness and lack of empathy.
Priestley uses the structure of the play, with each character contributing to Eva Smith's downfall, to symbolise the ripple effect of individual actions within a community. This reinforces the idea that all members of society are interconnected.
The play's post-war context is significant. Written in 1945 but set in 1912, Priestley uses dramatic irony to criticise the pre-war attitudes of selfishness and privilege, advocating instead for a post-war emphasis on community and social welfare.
The final moments of the play, with the revelation of a second inspector, serve as a warning. Priestley suggests that society will continue to suffer unless individuals embrace the concept of community and collective accountability. </aside>

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Relating to… Community

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