Gerald characterisation

• Gerald is Priestley's tool to reveal the flaws of the upper classes. He represents the aristocracy
• Priestley raises false hope that Gerald is going to change like the younger Birlings
• Gerald priorities business over his love and marriage for Shelia
• Like Eric, Gerald considers the women who frequent the palace bar only in terms if their appearance he criticises them furthering the patriarchal society of Edwardian England.
• Priestley allows the audience to gain sympathy towards Gerald as he starts to take responsibility for his actions. this is exciting because he is a member of a class that holds power and will be able to make changes
• Through Gerald Priestley presents the aristocracy as self-interest people who, instead of sharing their wealth, are more likely to follow the family tradition of preserving it within their family