Repertory looks at Priestley play REP TALK WITH NADINE RAYNER

• Published date: 03 November 2021

Their self-satisfaction is challenged with the arrival of a police inspector, Inspector Goole, who wishes to question them about their involvement with a young woman who has just committed suicide. As the inspector interrogates each one it becomes clear that each played a part in Eva Smith’s desperation leading to her suicide.

While the younger members of the family are remorseful, understanding that they did indeed cause hardships for Eva Smith, the older generation maintains their belief they are socially and morally superior. They’re not prepared to accept any responsibility for poor Eva Smith’s demise.

This play, An Inspector Calls, reflects JB Priestley’s socialist principles and highlights the hypocrisies in Victorian and Edwardian societies. Social change evolves slowly.

Our play reading group enjoyed reading this play last week but agreed that should we put it...