GCSE English Literature

Age and Generation in An Inspector Calls1 key quotes with full analysis.

Complete collection of quotes about age and generation in An Inspector Calls for GCSE English Literature, exploring the generational divide.

Understanding Age and Generation

The generational divide is crucial to An Inspector Calls. Sheila and Eric represent hope - they immediately accept responsibility and want to change. Mr and Mrs Birling refuse to learn: even after everything, Mr Birling jokes about being “the only one of us who didn't give in.” They worry only about scandal, not morality.

Priestley's 1945 audience had just survived WW2. The older generation's attitudes (capitalism, selfishness, ignoring social problems) had led to two world wars. The young represented the future - voters who could choose the welfare state and social equality. The play asks which path they will choose.

Younger GenerationChangeHopeLearning1945 Audience

All Age and Generation Quotes

“You're squiffy”
SheilaAct 1
Family SecretsYouth

Context: Sheila teases Eric during the engagement dinner, noticing he's drunk.

Analysis

This slang term shows Sheila's initial frivolity and upper-class speech patterns. It also hints at Eric's alcoholism - a family secret. The light-hearted opening contrasts with the tragedy that unfolds. Even this casual remark shows the family isn't as perfect as they appear.

Language Techniques:

SlangForeshadowing

Exam Tip

Shows the superficial happiness before the Inspector arrives. Eric's drinking is foreshadowed early.

Explore More An Inspector Calls Themes

View quotes organised by other key themes including social responsibility, class, and gender.

All Inspector Calls QuotesSocial Responsibility