Gerald - Relationship with Mr Birling

Question 1

“Oh – come come – I’m treating Gerald like one of the family.”

Answer 1

Again, Birling appears vulnerable and immediately jumps to his own defence, even though it seems as though he’s complimenting Gerald.

Question 2

“– couldn’t be nicer. I’m not sorry that we’re celebrating quietly like this-“

Answer 2

The use of dashes makes Birling seem nervous in his speech, he might seem himself as inferior to Gerald and is nervous to make a speech in front of him.

Question 3

“Hear, hear! And I think my father would agree to that.”

Answer 3

Agrees with Mr. Birling’s capitalistic views.