Religion: sin, morality and punishment in 'An Inspector Calls'
I can explain how 'An Inspector Calls' could be interpreted as a religious allegory.
Religion: sin, morality and punishment in 'An Inspector Calls'
I can explain how 'An Inspector Calls' could be interpreted as a religious allegory.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- 'An Inspector Calls' could be interpreted as a religious allegory.
- The seven deadly sins are reflected in the characters' actions and their moral failings.
- The themes of purgatory and judgment are explored through the characters' unresolved guilt.
- The Inspector embodies biblical justice, revealing truth, prompting confessions, and warning of consequences.
- Priestley critiques the law, suggesting moral accountability is more important than legal justice.
Keywords
Allegory - a work with a hidden meaning, often moral or political, where characters and events symbolise abstract ideas
Repentance - feeling regret for wrongdoings and seeking forgiveness, accompanied by a commitment to change
Redemption - the act of being saved from sin or error, often involving atonement
Purgatory - a temporary state where souls are purified before entering heaven, according to some Christian beliefs
Biblical - relating to the Bible, its teachings, stories, and principles
Common misconception
The play is definitely a religious allegory, and all interpretations align with this view.
While the religious allegory is a valid interpretation, it’s important to consider it as one lens. Focussing on one interpretation may limit a deeper analysis of the text’s complexity.
To help you plan your year 11 english lesson on: Religion: sin, morality and punishment in 'An Inspector Calls', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 english lesson on: Religion: sin, morality and punishment in 'An Inspector Calls', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the An Inspector Calls: perspectives on crime, justice and the role of the Inspector unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of ‘An Inspector Calls’ by J.B. Priestley, Heinemann 2014 edition.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of mental health issues
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Fired her from his factory after she asked for a pay rise.
Got her fired from a shop out of jealousy and spite.
Got her pregnant and stole money to support her.
Had an affair with her and then abandoned her.
Refused to help her when she sought aid from a charity.
explains the main focus of the paragraph
keywords, methods and includes quotations
summarises the main focus of the paragraph
Exit quiz
6 Questions
a place of redemption and salvation for those who repent
a place of punishment for those who remain sinful and unrepentant
a state of waiting where souls face consequences before redemption