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Year 11 - English

Contextualising gender expectations in 'An Inspector Calls'

'An Inspector Calls': societal expectations of gender and class

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn about how Priestly questions societal expectations of gender and class in 'An Inspector Calls'. They look at three female characters, Sheila, Mrs Birling and Eva, and also explore how masculinity is presented. They finally plan and write an essay on the topic.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain how gender expectations and stereotypes are represented in 'An Inspector Calls'.

Key Notes

  • Arguably, gender stereotypes and expectations exist in society and impact the way we perceive ourselves and others.
  • Gender and class are inextricably linked and impact the lives and experiences of people differently.
  • Gender roles were more traditionally defined in Edwardian society.
  • Priestley was writing in post-war Britain which saw the traditional expectations of gender roles being challenged.
  • Priestley's ending is both hopeful, with characters challenging views, and futile, as society repeats its mistakes.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • stereotype: a set idea that people have about what someone or something is like
  • futile: pointless or ineffective, and will not lead to any useful result or meaningful change
  • enforce: make sure something is obeyed or carried out, often by applying rules, laws, or authority
  • gender roles: the stereotypical role or behaviour considered to be appropriate to a particular gender
  • traditional: a way of thinking, behaving, or doing something that has been used by people for a long time; old-fashioned

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Priestley suggests that all gender roles have been successfully challenged by the end of the play.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Arguably, gender stereotypes and expectations exist in society and impact the way we perceive ourselves and others. Gender and class are inextricably linked and impact the lives and experiences of people differently.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'stereotype'

a set idea that people have about what someone or something is like.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Priestley suggests that all gender roles have been successfully challenged by the end of the play. Correction: A more nuanced view is that argaubly Priestley shows both progress and resistance, suggesting that while some characters challenge gender roles, societal change is slow and not fully realised.

More Lessons In This Unit

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