The main characters in An Inspector Calls are the Birling family, Gerald Croft and Inspector Goole. The Inspector’s investigation aims to teach each character a lesson.
An Inspector Calls has six main characters. The Birling family are Arthur, Sybil, Eric and Sheila. Gerald Croft, Sheila's fiancé, joins the Birlings for dinner. Inspector Goole arrives to conduct his investigation.
This investigation focuses on the death of Eva Smith, who changes her name to Daisy Renton. She is significant but we never actually meet her.
The Birlings' maid, Edna, may seem insignificant but she serves as a reminder of the Birlings’ wealth and the presence of the lower classes. She also introduces the Inspector and provides insight into the life of Eva Smith since they come from a similar background.
Main characters
Mr Arthur Birling
Mrs Sybil Birling
Sheila Birling
Eric Birling
Gerald Croft
Inspector Goole
Secondary characters
Eva Smith/Daisy Renton
Minor characters
Edna - the Birlings' maid
Listen to a podcast about the characters of Sheila, Eric and Gerald in J B Priestley's play, An Inspector Calls.