An Inspector Calls - J.B. Priestley - 1945 - Contextual Information

The Edwardian Era

• The play was performed in 1945 but is set in 1912
• Historically, the play was first performed after WW2 but set before WW1
• King Edward VII succeeded Queen Victoria to make it the Edwardian era
• Edwardian Britain was 1901-1914
• It was the golden age for upper classes
• Those dressed elaborately had high society manners
• This era was redolent of opulence and elegance
• Technological advancement made them feel invincable
• Mightiest Empire
• The period was marked by growing inequality
• A gulf between rich and poor
• 1909 - Hunger Strike
• 1911 - Richest 1% had 70% of Britain's wealth
• 1911 - 1913 - The Great Unrest
• 1912 - The sinking of Titanic
• 1914 - Start of WW1
• 1929 - 1941/42 - The Great Depression

Capitalism and Socialism 

• Capitalist - a supporter of capitalism; someone who values the accumulation of wealth and ownership of business and property.
• Socialist - a supporter of socialism; some who believes wealth should be shared so that there is more equality in society.
• Social responsibility - taking responsiblity for other members of society and helping out your fellow man; we do not live alone.
• Underclass -> working poor -> working class -> lower middle class -> upper middle class (bourgeoisie) -> upper class…