Gerald Croft

Cards (29)

  • What are the three key quotations for Gerald Croft?
    1. "We're respectable citizens and not criminals."
    2. "I liked the power I had over Daisy."
    3. "You know, girl."
  • How is Gerald Croft described in the opening stage directions?
    As an attractive chap about 30, rather too manly to be a Dandy, and an easy well-bred young man about town
  • What does the adjective "easy" suggest about Gerald's status in life?
    It indicates that he comes from elite aristocracy and has had an easy life
  • What does Gerald's laid-back manner imply about his character?
    It suggests he is charming and cool, but also potentially arrogant
  • What does "well-bred" imply about Gerald's family background?
    It implies he comes from a respected, wealthy upper-class family
  • How does Gerald's family background compare to the Burling family?
    Gerald's family is of a higher class than the Burling family
  • What does Priestly suggest about the attitudes of the wealthy upper class through Gerald's character?
    He suggests that their ingrained attitudes never change
  • How does Gerald's character reflect the generational divide in the play?
    He is closer to the older Birlings in viewpoint despite being younger
  • What does the phrase "man about town" suggest about Gerald?
    It suggests he is suave, sophisticated, and well-respected
  • What does Gerald's statement about providing Daisy with a place to stay reveal about his character?
    It reveals his desire to be seen as a hero rescuing a damsel in distress
  • How does the power dynamic between Gerald and Daisy affect their relationship?
    It creates an abusive relationship where Gerald holds financial and emotional power over Daisy
  • What does the use of the imperative verb "I insisted" imply about Gerald's attitude towards Daisy?
    It connotes a sense of power and control, suggesting Daisy had no real choice
  • What does Gerald's statement "I became at once the most important person in her life" reveal about his character?
    It highlights his egotistical nature and sense of entitlement
  • How does Gerald's view of his relationship with Daisy reflect the attitudes of the upper class?
    It reflects a belief that money can solve problems and that he can treat women as he pleases
  • What does Gerald's engagement ring for Sheila symbolize?
    It symbolizes his belief that money can buy love and solve issues
  • How does Sheila's character progression affect her relationship with Gerald?
    Sheila grows and changes, leading to a rift between her and Gerald
  • What does Gerald's statement "everything's all right now" suggest about his understanding of the situation?
    It suggests he believes their relationship can return to normal despite the affair
  • How does Priestly portray the upper class through Gerald's actions and attitudes?
    He portrays them as manipulative, abusive, and unwilling to take responsibility
  • What does the metaphor of Daisy's death represent in the context of the play?
    It represents the lack of voice and agency for the working class, especially women
  • How does Gerald's reaction to Daisy's death change the audience's perception of him?
    It endears him slightly to the audience, suggesting he may have had genuine feelings for her
  • What does the use of dashes in Gerald's speech about Daisy's death signify?
    It signifies his emotional turmoil and brokenness upon learning of her death
  • How does Gerald's description of Daisy's beauty reflect his character?
    It suggests he objectifies her and values her for her looks rather than her personhood
  • What does Gerald's choice to propose to Sheila despite his affair with Daisy suggest about his character?
    It suggests he is self-serving and believes he can maintain both relationships
  • How does Priestly use Gerald's character to comment on societal issues in 1912?
    He uses Gerald to illustrate the entitlement and irresponsibility of the upper class
  • What does the cyclical nature of Gerald's attitude suggest about the upper class's approach to social responsibility?
    It suggests they are unwilling to change and do not take responsibility for their actions
  • What are the key characteristics of Gerald Croft in "An Inspector Calls"?
    • Attractive and charming
    • Comes from a wealthy, well-bred family
    • Displays arrogance and entitlement
    • Engages in an affair with Daisy Renton
    • Believes money can solve problems
    • Reflects the attitudes of the upper class
  • What are the implications of Gerald's relationship with Daisy Renton?
    • Power dynamic: Gerald holds financial and emotional power
    • Objectification: Daisy is valued for her beauty
    • Egotism: Gerald believes he is a hero for helping her
    • Superficial care: His feelings are questioned after her death
  • How does the play "An Inspector Calls" portray the upper class through Gerald's actions?
    • Manipulative and abusive behavior
    • Lack of genuine responsibility for societal issues
    • Superficial relationships based on power and money
    • Resistance to change and social progress
  • What does the character of Gerald Croft reveal about societal attitudes in 1912?
    • Class privilege and entitlement
    • Gender dynamics and objectification of women
    • Resistance to socialist ideas from the younger generation
    • The cyclical nature of inequality and social injustice