the pursuit of fairness and the proper treatment of individuals within society

a consequence imposed for wrongdoing, often to deter future offences or promote change

something that is intended to punish or inflict a penalty

the process of restoring someone to a positive state, particularly through correctional or educational measures

refers to issues deeply embedded in society, affecting its social, political, or economic structures

Exploring how Priestley portrays punishment and justice in 'An Inspector Calls’

English

In 'Animal Farm: Barriers to Leadership', pupils evaluate the different types of leadership styles presented in the novella. In 'Animal Farm: Lies and Deception', pupils explore how key images, such as food and the windmill, are used a symbols of the lies and deceit of the pigs.

In this unit, pupils explore how Priestly presents the Inspector and crime and punishment in 'An Inspector Calls'. They first look at different ways of interpreting the Inspector, before then thinking about what messages about crime and punishment Priestly is communicating.

Modern text: second deep dive

Historic or outdated representations of people that may portray inequality or injustice.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce, poverty, deprivation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of serious mental health issues including eating disorders, self-harm, suicide or attempted suicide, or the aftermath of such an event.

Depiction or discussion of mental health issues

Legal punishment is the only form of justice.

Psychological punishment and moral reflection are central to justice.

Only physical punishment serves as justice.

Justice is always achieved through financial penalties.

Which of the following best describes Priestley's presentation of punishment in 'An Inspector Calls'?

Justice is achieved by imposing harsh penalties for wrongdoing.

Wrongdoers should be reformed through education and personal growth.

Legal consequences are sufficient to address moral failings.

Society should ignore the actions of those who make mistakes.

Rehabilitative punishment refers to the idea that...

Which type of punishment beginning with 'p' can be described as: focused on inflicting a penalty or suffering as a form of retribution.

Punitive, legal measures like fines and imprisonment.

Moral and psychological punishment, involving guilt and personal growth.

Economic punishment through wealth redistribution.

Complete avoidance of any form of punishment.

Arguably, what kind of punishment does Priestley imply is most effective in achieving true justice in 'An Inspector Calls'?

The wealthy and powerful always receive the justice they deserve.

Social responsibility is irrelevant to justice.

Legal justice is always fair and sufficient.

Moral justice, not legal punishment, is the key to societal progress.

Which of the following best reflects Priestley’s critique of traditional justice in 'An Inspector Calls'?

Mr Birling believes legal systems are always fair and accessible to everyone.

Mr Birling thinks his status protects him, showing the system is biased.

Mr Birling rejects the idea of legal justice, advocating for moral reckoning.

Mr Birling supports workers' rights and equality in legal systems.

Which answer best describes how Priestley uses the character of Mr Birling to critique the legal system in 'An Inspector Calls'?

In 'An Inspector Calls', which character is the only one to have committed a legal crime?

In Act 1 of 'An Inspector Calls', Mr Birling mentions his positions of power and connections. Which does he mention?

The Inspector as a mouthpiece for Priestley’s socialist ideals.

The Inspector as a supernatural being with otherworldly powers.

The Inspector as a symbol of divine justice.

The Inspector as a conventional police officer enforcing the law.

In 'An Inspector Calls', the Inspector can be interpreted in different ways. Which of the following answers would **not** be considered a valid interpretation?

Which word beginning with 'o' can be described as all-knowing and seeing everything, past, present, and future?

Crime should always be punished by the law.

Personal responsibility is crucial in addressing wrongdoings.

Societal norms should always justify individual actions.

Only legal consequences can bring true justice.

In An Inspector Calls, how could Eric’s guilt reflect Priestley’s views on crime and responsibility?

Is this statement true or false? The writer of 'An Inspector Calls', J.B Priestley, was a prominent member of the Conservative party.

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of mental health issues

Adult supervision required

Starter Quiz