GCSE English Literature

Gender in An Inspector Calls2 key quotes with full analysis.

Complete collection of quotes about gender in An Inspector Calls for GCSE English Literature, exploring women's roles and Sheila's transformation.

Understanding Gender in An Inspector Calls

Gender roles in 1912 were strictly defined. Upper-class women like Sheila were expected to be decorative, obedient, and ignorant of “unpleasant” matters. Working-class women like Eva had few options when they lost respectable work - as Gerald notes, the Palace bar was full of “women of the town.” Both Gerald and Eric exploit Eva sexually with no consequences.

Priestley uses Sheila's transformation to show hope. She begins as a stereotypical upper-class girl but develops into the play's moral conscience. She rejects Gerald's ring and challenges her parents, breaking free from expected gender roles. Written in 1945 when women had worked in factories during wartime, the play suggests women deserve equality.

Women's RolesPatriarchyDouble StandardsExploitationSuffragettes

All Gender Quotes

“She was young and pretty and warm-hearted - and intensely grateful”
GeraldAct 2
ClassExploitationGender

Context: Gerald describes his relationship with Daisy Renton (Eva Smith).

Analysis

The listing sentimentalizes his exploitation. "Grateful" reveals the power imbalance - she depended on him entirely. Gerald presents himself as her savior while actually taking advantage of her vulnerability. His romantic language masks the reality of class-based exploitation.

Language Techniques:

ListingSentimentalitySelf-justification

Exam Tip

Gerald genuinely cared for Eva but still exploited her. Shows how even "kindness" can be exploitative.

“I became at once the most important person in her life”
GeraldAct 2
PowerClassGender

Context: Gerald describes his relationship with Eva/Daisy.

Analysis

Gerald's self-importance reveals the power dynamic. Eva's vulnerability made him "important" - he enjoyed the control. His pride in being essential to her shows he benefited from her desperation. The relationship was inherently unequal.

Language Techniques:

Self-importancePower dynamics

Exam Tip

Gerald's "rescue" still exploited Eva's vulnerability. Even well-intentioned relationships can be exploitative.

Explore More An Inspector Calls Themes

View quotes organised by other key themes including social responsibility, class, and the generation gap.

All Inspector Calls QuotesAge and Generation