Gerald Croft

Question 1

Introduction

Answer 1

Symbolises the upper class

Stagnant but symptomatic of his upper class upbringing

His behaviour is shown to be insincere

Question 2

W.B.Y.M.A.T

Answer 2

Well-bred young man about town

Gerald’s self-description highlights his upper-class upbringing, marking him as someone who follows traditional capitalist values
Priestley uses this to critique the superficiality and moral emptiness of the upper class

Question 3

I.B.T.L.E.H.I

Answer 3

I’ve been trying long enough, haven’t I?

Gerald’s slightly desperate tone reveals his enjoyment in the pursuit of women
This highlights the capitalist attitude that those of higher status can manipulate situations for their own benefit.

Question 4

S.L.Y.A.F.A.C

Answer 4

She looked young and fresh and charming

Gerald’s superficial description of Eva reflects his objectification of women
Priestley critiques this objectification as part of the capitalist system that devalues human life

Question 5

S.B.L.M.T.H.O.O.T

Answer 5

She’d better let me take her out of there

Gerald’s possessive language shows his belief in his entitlement to control, reinforcing the capitalist values of ownership
This highlights his misuse of power to perpetuate exploitation, treating Eva as a disposable object of his privilege.

Question 6

I.W.D

Answer 6

It wasn’t disgusting

Gerald’s attempt to downplay his actions reflects the idea that personal comfort and status are prioritised over moral responsibility.
Priestley uses Gerald to demonstrate the upper class’s detachment from the suffering they cause

Question 7

I.I.O.A.P.G

Answer 7

I insisted on a parting gift

Gerald’s insistence on a “parting gift” illustrates his commodification of relationships, seeing Eva as a transaction
Priestley critiques how capitalist society encourages people to view others as objects to be bought and sold

Question 8

H.D.W.K.O.T.S.G

Answer 8

How do we know it’s the same girl?

This reflects his refusal to take responsibility and his desire to preserve his own reputation.
Priestley uses this to expose the self-serving nature of capitalism, where the truth is often ignored

Question 9

E.I.A.N.S.W.A.T.R

Answer 9

Everything is alright now, Sheila. What about this ring?

The use of the question exposes Gerald’s entitlement, as he believes everyone is happy since he is happy