1. Use of Dramatic Irony:
- Dramatic irony is created when the audience knows more than the characters on stage. In "An Inspector Calls," the audience is aware that an Inspector is coming to investigate the death of a young woman, Eva Smith, while the characters are initially unaware of this fact. This creates a sense of suspense and anticipation, keeping the audience engaged and eagerly waiting for the Inspector's arrival.
2. Flashback Structure:
- The play employs a non-linear structure, using flashbacks to reveal the events that led to Eva Smith's death. This unconventional narrative technique allows the audience to piece together the puzzle of events, gradually uncovering the truth and understanding the characters' actions and motivations. The use of flashbacks adds to the play's dramatic intensity and builds a sense of mystery and intrigue.
3. Characterization:
- Priestley uses well-developed and complex characters to elicit strong emotional responses from the audience. The characters represent different social classes and perspectives, reflecting the societal issues and inequalities prevalent in the early 20th century. The audience is drawn into the characters' struggles, empathizes with their dilemmas, and reflects on their own moral choices and responsibilities.
4. Setting and Atmosphere:
- The play takes place in the Birling family's opulent drawing-room, creating an atmosphere of wealth and privilege. However, the presence of an Inspector and the looming shadow of tragedy disrupt the comfortable façade of the Birlings' lives. The contrast between the luxurious setting and the dark revelations about the characters' actions builds a sense of unease and forces the audience to question the underlying social and moral issues.
5. Dramatic Tension and Climax:
- Priestley skillfully builds dramatic tension throughout the play, leading to a climactic moment when the Inspector reveals the interconnectedness of the characters' actions and their impact on Eva Smith's life. The audience experiences a mix of shock, realization, and emotional catharsis as the truth is unveiled. This heightened emotional response underscores the play's central themes of responsibility, social injustice, and the consequences of one's actions.
6. Symbolism:
- Symbolic elements are woven into the play to enhance its thematic depth and emotional impact. For example, the motif of fire and imagery of light and darkness represent both physical and metaphorical concepts such as destruction, guilt, and the unveiling of hidden truths. These symbols resonate with the audience on a deeper level, adding layers of meaning to the play's exploration of social and moral issues.
In summary, Priestley's use of dramatic devices such as dramatic irony, flashbacks, complex characterization, setting, dramatic tension, and symbolism had a profound impact on the audience of "An Inspector Calls." These devices heightened emotional engagement, created suspense, and prompted audiences to reflect on their own moral obligations, social responsibilities, and the consequences of their actions.