Gerald

Question 1

Key Ideas: Gerald

Answer 1

Priestley uses the character of Gerald to represent the individualism of the upper-class. He disillusions (disappoints) the audience, who hopes that by the end of the play he would change his capitalist and selfish attitudes, as he fails to do so.

Therefore, Priestley uses Gerald’s failure to develop his sense of social responsibility, to convey how entrenched these upper-class attitudes are; even death won’t change them.

Question 2

Gerald Start

Answer 2

1. “I believe you’re right, sir”

Formal direct address, sycophant to Mr Birling and the upper generation for wealth interest, image of upper class individualism.

2. “I should say so!”

Exclamation mirroring Mr Birling, Same sycophantic behaviour (above)

3. “Now listen, darling—“

Direct address with the word “darling” suggests Gerald tempting to calm Sheila, using his his confident attitude as an upper class man to subdue the female Sheila.

Question 3

Gerald Middle

Answer 3

1. “Inspector, I think Miss Birling ought to be excused….”

Belittling tone, mimics the Birlings suggesting Gerald is literally acting like the older generation, presented as controlling and cunning to ‘manage’ Sheila

2. “Eva was “young and pretty and warm-hearted - and intensely grateful.””

Rule of three in a positive manner first, then a sinister image of her being intensely grateful, suggesting exploitation.

Question 4

Gerald End

Answer 4

1. “They may have all been nonsense”

Matter of fact tone suggests acceptance and denial of the past events in a quick time, dismissal and ignorance of an entitled class.

2. “I don’t mind doing it”

Platonic tone suggests indifference whether or not Eva Smith existed/died.

3. Everything is all right now, Sheila. (Holds up the ring) What about this ring?

Condescending tone with the direct address, question suggests an uncomfortable tone for the audience. An image of a sly Gerald is created, dismissing the past events nonchalantly.