An Inspector Calls (Grades 9–1) York Notes

A mysterious and compelling character with a strong moral purpose and a commanding presence who demands that others are accountable for their actions.

Mr Birling, a pompous factory owner, takes an uncaring attitude to his workforce. His haughty wife, Mrs Birling, also cares little for the unfortunate.

Sheila is a frivolous young woman who, through her actions, learns the importance of social responsibility, as does her brother, Eric, who lacks confidence, behaves badly and drinks heavily.

A polite upper-class young man who is engaged to Sheila but has an affair with Daisy Renton/Eva Smith. He is troubled by Eva Smith’s suicide, but when he thinks there is no suicide, his guilty feelings disappear.

Described by Inspector Goole as an attractive working-class young woman. She commits suicide as a result of the Birlings’ treatment of her.