purpose/info

• Gerald’s character traits

  Class-conscious, emotionally callous, conceals the truth
• Why Gerald conceals the truth about Eva


  To avoid social embarrassment, fear of consequences, and maintain deniability
• Eva's class impact on Gerald

  Social distance, lack of empathy, fear of contamination
• Eva's class challenge to Gerald's worldview

  Reveals harsh realities, pokes holes at innocence, silences complacency
• Meaning of silence in this context

  Forcing Gerald to confront the truth, speaking louder than words, guilt and shame
• “I'm not responsible for what she does.”

  Shows Gerald's attempt to detach himself from his responsibilities and accountability towards Eva
• “I must try and make myself comfortable.”

  Highlights Gerald's selfishness and focus on his own comfort rather than the well-being of others
• “I didn't know she was a prostitute.”


  Reveals Gerald's lack of empathy and understanding towards Eva's situation, and his attempt to downplay their relationship
• “I'm not a Don Juan.”

  Shows Gerald's attempt to defend himself and salvage his reputation, while also hiding his own mistakes and flaws
• “I'm not a bad chap.”

  Reflects Gerald's attempt to justify his actions and portray himself as a decent person, despite his morally questionable behavior
• How Gerald's selfishness affects Arthur Birling

  Furious tensions rise between them, contributing to the downfall of their business and reputations
• How Gerald's selfishness affects Shelia Birling

  Creates tension in their relationship, torn between love and morality, and ultimately leads to the breakdown of their engagement