Mr Birling - Relationship with Gerald

Question 1

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

Answer 1

• Defending himself and complementing Gerald at the same time
• Likes Gerald, views him as part of the family before he’s even married Shiela

Question 2

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

Answer 2

• The use of dashes make Mr Birling seem nervous, doesn’t know what to say so he pauses a lot
• Might feel inferior to Gerald as he is of lower class so he is nervous to make his speech

Question 3

“Your engagement to Sheila means a tremendous lot to me. She’ll make you happy.”

Answer 3

• Aims his speech towards Gerald rather than both

- Likes Gerald and wants him to be happy more than Sheila as Gerald could help his business