a technique to make the audience critically aware of the play's social or political issues

emotional release experienced by the audience, often through pity or fear

the imaginary barrier between the actors and the audience in a performance

a narrative structure where the story unfolds through a series of distinct episodes or scenes

the use of dramatic elements that highlight the artifice and performance in theatre

'An Inspector Calls' as Brechtian theatre and socialist realism

English

In this unit, pupils look at how Priestly uses dramatic forms to present his ideas. They look at naturalism and expressionism, before thinking about how the play fits with Brechtian theatre and the morality play tradition. They finally write about how Priestly uses form to present his ideas.

Modern text: third deep dive

Historic or outdated representations of people that may portray inequality or injustice.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

What is the name of the genre of theatre that Brecht developed and used to apply his ideas about political theatre?

Is this statement true or false? The playwright Brecht was influenced by marxism and saw theatre as a way to educate the masses.

Which of the following would **not** be considered a Brechtian technique?

By presenting a utopian resolution to social issues.

By focusing on the suffering of the working class and the evils of capitalism.

By presenting the Birling family as sympathetic characters.

How does the play 'An Inspector Calls' align with the principles of socialist realism?

Because it presented a message of unity and peace.

Because it ignored political themes entirely.

Because it depicted an idealised version of socialism

Because it criticised capitalism and highlighted the class struggle.

Why did the Soviet Union praise 'An Inspector Calls' during its debut in Russia?

encourages emotional involvement with characters to evoke a cathartic response

uses a realistic style to immerse the audience in the characters' emotions

makes the audience aware they are watching a play, encouraging them to think

creates a sense of nostalgia for the past, urging the audience to reflect

Which of the following best describes the key convention of alienation (Verfremdungseffekt) in Brechtian theatre?

The Birlings celebrate Sheila’s engagement, showing their social status.

Inspector Goole arrives, investigating Eva Smith’s suicide.

Mr Birling dismisses Eva’s death, showcasing his capitalist mindset.

Sheila admits her role in Eva’s suffering.

Gerald confesses his affair with Eva, exposing his moral hypocrisy.

Eric admits to stealing and exploiting Eva, highlighting his recklessness.

The Inspector leaves, leaving the Birlings questioning their conscience.

Put the following plot points from 'An Inspector Calls' in the correct chronological order.

uses elaborate stage effects, music and settings

emphasises complex, abstract themes with minimal dialogue

presents life in a realistic, unglorified manner, often focusing on issues

focuses on exaggerated characters and dramatic events

Which of the following best describes naturalism in theatre?

Is this statement true or false? Stephen Daldry's staging for his production of 'An Inspector Calls' could be described as expressionist.

Believes the working class should take care of themselves.

Represents the idea of social responsibility and collective action.

Initially indifferent to the suffering of others but evolves.

Is indifferent and believes in personal success over social duty.

Match the character from 'An Inspector Calls' with the best description of their attitude towards social responsibility:

A long speech delivered by one character.

A technique that hints at events that will happen later.

The imagined barrier between the play and the audience is shattered.

When the audience knows more than the characters, creating tension.

A technique where the character speaks directly to the audience.

Match the dramatic method to its definition:

Is this statement true or false? 'An Inspector Calls' has only one setting throughout the whole play.

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Adult supervision recommended

Starter Quiz