Final answer:
Priestley showcases regret and its effects in "An Inspector Calls" by analyzing the consequences of regret on the characters, particularly through the younger generation's capacity for change compared to the older characters' stubbornness, aligning with option A.
Step-by-step explanation:
J.B. Priestley effectively presents the theme of regret and its impacts in his play "An Inspector Calls." This is primarily done by analyzing the consequences of regret on the characters, which corresponds to option A. The characters in the play each have individual moments of realization where they reflect on their actions and confront their own responsibility for the tragic outcome of a young woman's life. Throughout the play, Priestley creates a situation where each character must face the effects of their own actions and express their regret in different ways. For instance, Sheila's regret is palpable and she undergoes a transformation, recognizing her own shallow and harmful behavior. On the other hand, her father, Mr. Birling, steadfastly refuses to learn from the past, showing little remorse. This clear delineation between characters who can feel regret and those who cannot serves to underline the theme of remorse and the hope for societal change that regret/realization can foster.
The most vivid illustration of regret is seen in the character development of Eric and Sheila. The young generation in the play is depicted as learning from their mistakes and showing a willingness to change, indicating a generational shift in mindset. Here, Priestley is not only discussing personal regret but is also commenting on the broader social and moral responsibilities of individuals within a community. Therefore, the most fitting answer to how Priestley presents regret and its effects in "An Inspector Calls" would be option A: by analyzing the consequences of regret on the characters. Priestley uses the characters' experiences to explore and present the complex layers of regret and the potential for personal growth and societal change it carries.