Gerald Croft Priestley's Ideas

Question 1

How does Priestley use the character of Gerald

Answer 1

Priestley uses the character of Gerald Croft to throw light both on the Birling parents who are too set in their social ways to be changed by the Inspector’s visit, and on the Birling children who are certainly very responsive to the Inspector’s message, but possibly in a slightly naïve and hysterical way. Gerald acts as a bridge between the two generations.

Question 2

Gerald and his contrast to Eric

Answer 2

Gerald provides a strong contrast to Eric, Mr Birling’s natural son and Priestley uses Gerald to show the tensions between Eric and his father.

Question 3

Gerald and his attitude to the lower-class

Answer 3

Priestley shows that it was common for the upper class to behave so badly towards the lower-class by having Gerald present. If the Inspector only questioned the Birling family, Priestley wouldn’t be able to convey to the audience how widespread the problem was.