In “An Inspector Calls,” a play by J.B. Priestley, early 20th-century England’s society is portrayed as being incredibly unfair. Priestley portrays a society that is class, gender, and wealth-divided, with the wealthy and powerful taking advantage of the less fortunate for their own gain. He does this through character interactions, themes, and symbolism.

Injustice and inequality are introduced early on in the play by Priestley. The Birling family, who hold a position of privilege and power, are portrayed as being conceited and conceited, with little regard for those who are less fortunate than themselves. In Act One, Mr. Birling dismisses the idea of social responsibility, stating that “a man has to make his own way – has to look after himself – and his family too, of course.”