An Inspector Calls - Gerald

Question 1

Whys: 1

Answer 1

By positioning Gerald as a character who evades neat categorisation within either the older or
younger generation, Priestley builds tension as to whether he will ultimately chose to accept
responsibility for his actions or not. In doing so, he reminds the audience that each of us has a
choice to make - while clearly suggesting there is a right and wrong decision.

Question 2

Whys: 2

Answer 2

Gerald is portrayed as being deeply entrenched in his upper class upbringing. While it is clearly
suggested that he should, and could, learn and grow from his behaviour, he is shown not to
progress, perhaps suggesting the inherent difficulty of a sincere transformation, as for the
betrayal of his class allegiance is too unpalatable a step

Question 3

Why 3:

Answer 3

He shows the hypocrisy of Edwardian gender ideals: protector on the surface, exploiter beneath.

Question 4

What adjectives describe Gerald?

Answer 4

Charming
Privileged
Hypocritical
Self-serving

Question 5

“I didn’t feel about her as she felt about me.”

Answer 5

Act 2**
Reveals emotional imbalance and exploitation. He used her affection for his own comfort.

Question 6

“She was young and pretty and warm-hearted – and intensely grateful.”

Answer 6

Act 2**
Idealises Eva, but also objectifies her. She’s cast as a project to save rather than a person.

Question 7

“Everything’s all right now, Sheila. What about this ring?”

Answer 7

Act 3**
Refuses to change. Tries to reset to how things were, showing denial of responsibility.