Stage Directions

The directions given by Priestly are very important.  They inform us about what the characters look like, but through the way in which they say things, they give us an insight into what they’re thinking/feelings.

The opening set of stage directions is particularly important.  They let us know what type of family the Birling’s are, but they also give us an insight into how the character of the Inspector will change the mood of the play – this is done through lighting.

TASK: Why is the significance of the lighting change to the plot of the play?

The description of the Inspector is particularly important.  Why do you think that Priestly specifically states that he “need not be a big man”?

Throughout the entire play, Priestly gives an insight into how the characters should speak their lines.  Through this, we’re able to ascertain what they’re thinking about the events unfolding and how important it is to them.

Think about what these directions tell us about the character:

Inspector (cutting in)

Eric (miserably)

Eric (suddenly startled)

Mrs B (alarmed)

TASK: find other examples where the way a character speaks tells us A LOT about their thoughts/feelings at the time.