Sheila and changing attitudes toward gender and class in 'An Inspector Calls'
I can explain how Sheila's character development could reflect changing attitudes towards gender and class expectations.
Sheila and changing attitudes toward gender and class in 'An Inspector Calls'
I can explain how Sheila's character development could reflect changing attitudes towards gender and class expectations.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Priestley initially presents Sheila as naive and entitled.
- Other characters infantilise Sheila and try to protect her from the truth
- The treatment of Sheila conforms to the gender expectations of Edwardian society.
- Sheila's journey in the play leads her to challenge and defy societal expectations.
- Sheila arguably begins to subvert the traditional expectations of class and gender by the end of the play.
Keywords
Infantilise - treat (someone) like a child or in a way which denies their maturity in age or experience
Entitled - believing oneself to be inherently deserving of privileges or special treatment
Defiance - behaviour in which you refuse to obey someone or something
Optimism - the quality of being full of hope and emphasising the good parts of a situation
Subvert - the act of challenging or going against a stereotype or convention
Common misconception
Sheila’s transformation at the end of the play is entirely optimistic, showing that she has completely embraced responsibility and will lead a future free from societal inequality.
While Sheila's growth is significant, her awareness is limited and she’s still part of the system she criticises. Priestley uses her character to show potential for change, but also highlights the ongoing challenges of inequality.
To help you plan your year 11 english lesson on: Sheila and changing attitudes toward gender and class 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: Sheila and changing attitudes toward gender and class in 'An Inspector Calls', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the ‘An Inspector Calls’: societal expectations of gender and class 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.
Licence
Lesson video
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