Gerald Act 1

• What is Gerald's social status in the context of the study material?

  He is at the top of the social class.
• What factors contribute to Gerald's social superiority?

  His wealth, family name, attractiveness, and age.
• How does the prejudices of Edwardian society affect Gerald's introduction?

  It works in his favour by presenting him as a well-bred young man.
• What does the word "easy" imply about Gerald's behavior?

  It suggests that his behavior comes naturally to him.
• What criticism might Priestley imply with the term "well-bred"?

  It suggests that socialites are bred for a specific purpose.
• What does the phrase "man about-town" suggest about Gerald's activities?

  It foreshadows his literal actions of going out to find a mistress.
• What are the key characteristics of Gerald as a fashionable socialite?

  • Wealthy
  • Comes from a prestigious family
  • Attractive
  • Young
  • Represents social superiority
• How does the portrayal of Gerald reflect the values of Edwardian society?

  • Emphasizes social class and superiority
  • Highlights the importance of wealth and family name
  • Critiques the breeding of socialites for specific roles
• Capitalist views - is he a victim?

  on the surface level, this displays Gerald as a supporter of capitalist views/values as he agrees with Mr Birling's absurd justification of firing Eva from his factory.

  On a deeper investigation, Gerald is perhaps an opportunity to explore how these views become hardwired to some people from people of that class due to the older generation being their parents

  This could lead to the audience questioning whether Gerald's worldwide view is merely a product of his upbringing and thus he is almost presented as a victim of his society.
• Who does Gerald pursue as a wife?

  Sheila
• Why is Gerald's pursuit of Sheila considered unorthodox for the time?

  Because he might have done better socially
• What does Gerald's engagement to Sheila suggest about his feelings?

  It suggests that his love for her was genuine
• How does Gerald respond to Birling's discussion about their marriage?

  He responds with embarrassment
• What might Gerald's embarrassment about the marriage indicate?

  It could indicate he feels the marriage is below his social level
• What does the lack of social benefit in Gerald and Sheila's marriage suggest about Gerald's feelings?

  It suggests he has more genuine affection for Sheila
• How does Sheila's social status affect Gerald's position in society?

  Sheila does not bring him higher up the social ladder