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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Arthur feel there was something suspicious about Inspector Goole?

2. How did Eric try to resolve Mrs. Birling’s pregnancy?

3. Why do Sybil and Sheila leave?

4. Why does Sybil say Sheila is upset?

5. Who does Arthur blame for the situation?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where did Eric say he got the money he gave Mrs. Birling?

2. What is revealed to Eric about what happened while he was absent?

3. Why does Sheila become so upset at the end of Act II?

4. How does Arthur describe how Inspector Goole was able to trick most of the other characters?

5. Why does Inspector Goole blame the other characters collectively for Eva Smith’s suicide?

6. What is the meaning of Inspector Goole’s closing monologue?

7. Why does Eric say he had sex with Mrs. Birling?

8. What does Arthur accuse the other characters of doing?

9. What excuse does Gerald give to the hospital for making the call?

10. Why does Sheila not feel consoled by the revelation that Inspector Goole most likely tricked most of the other characters?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Unlike those of the other characters, the revelation about Eric’s wrongdoing is twofold. He is also the last character to be interrogated by Inspector Goole, placing him at the center of the drama. Write an essay about the author’s choice to reveal Eric’s wrongdoings last and the impact that choice has on the play.

Essay Topic 2

Because the play “An Inspector Calls” has no third-person omniscient narrator, next to nothing is known about the personal life of Inspector Goole, including his motivations and intents for arriving at the Birling home to question the other characters. Write an essay exploring the author’s choice to conceal so much of Inspector Goole’s character affects the play.

Essay Topic 3

One of the themes introduced in the play is that of universal morality. Is there a universal ethic to which we must all subscribe? Write an essay exploring whether or not you agree with Inspector Goole that the five other major characters – Arthur, Sybil, Eric, Sheila, and Gerald – are responsible for the suicide of Eva Smith/Daisy Renton/Mrs. Birling.

(see the answer keys)

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