Gerald Croftis a complex character in J.B. Priestley's play... Show more
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14 Jan 2026
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The Tragedie of Gerald Croft: Quotes, Essay, and Character Analysis
Gerald Croft in Act 2
Act 2 delves deeper into Gerald's character, particularly through his relationship with Daisy Renton (Eva Smith). His actions and words reveal a complex mix of genuine concern and self-serving behavior, challenging the audience's perception of his moral standing.
Gerald's defense of his affair with Daisy to Mrs. Birling, claiming that it "wasn't disgusting," shows a willingness to stand up for Daisy's honor. This moment potentially redeems him somewhat in the eyes of the audience, suggesting that his feelings for Daisy may have been more than purely selfish.
Quote: "I didn't feel about her as she felt about me"
However, this statement also reveals Gerald's emotional detachment and his tendency to maintain control over his feelings. It suggests a level of callousness in his treatment of Daisy, despite his apparent kindness.
The act further explores Gerald's role in Daisy's life, including his decision to house and financially support her. While on the surface this appears generous, it also raises questions about the power dynamics in their relationship.
Highlight: Gerald's financial support of Daisy puts her in a position of dependence, potentially making it difficult for her to refuse his advances or assert her own wishes.
Priestley uses Gerald's character to examine the ways in which privilege and class can be used to manipulate and control others, even under the guise of benevolence. This adds depth to the play's exploration of social responsibility and the abuse of power.
Example: By funding and housing Daisy, Gerald creates a situation where she may feel obligated to him, blurring the lines between genuine kindness and exploitation.
The act concludes with a more nuanced portrayal of Gerald, showing him as neither wholly good nor entirely self-serving. This complexity adds depth to his character and contributes to the play's overall themes of moral ambiguity and social critique.
Vocabulary: Moral ambiguity - A lack of certainty about whether something is right or wrong.
Gerald Croft in Act 1
Gerald Croft's character is introduced in Act 1 of "An Inspector Calls", immediately aligning himself with the older generation represented by Mr. and Mrs. Birling. His initial portrayal sets the stage for the audience to form opinions about his views on class and gender roles in society.
Highlight: Gerald's early alignment with the Birlings establishes him as a representative of traditional upper-class values.
Gerald's support for Mr. Birling's decision to fire Eva Smith is evident in his statement, "you couldn't have done anything else". This comment reveals Gerald's adherence to conventional class hierarchies and his belief in the right of employers to treat workers as they see fit.
Quote: "We're responsible citizens and not criminals"
This assertion by Gerald ironically foreshadows the revelations to come. It suggests that Gerald genuinely believes in the moral superiority of his social class, despite the transgressions that will be uncovered later in the play.
Priestley uses Gerald's character to explore the concept of moral ambiguity in society. The playwright suggests that there is often little difference between those considered respectable citizens and those labeled as criminals, particularly when it comes to the treatment of vulnerable individuals like Eva Smith.
Definition: Moral ambiguity refers to the lack of clarity between right and wrong in certain situations, often blurring the lines between ethical and unethical behavior.
Gerald's high opinion of himself is hinted at early in the play, setting the stage for the revelation of his narcissistic tendencies later on. This self-importance is evident in how he interprets and recounts his interactions with Daisy Renton (Eva Smith).
Example: Gerald's interpretation of Daisy Renton's glance as "nothing less than a cry for help" demonstrates his tendency to see himself as a heroic figure.
The act concludes with Gerald positioning himself as a philanthropic savior to Daisy Renton, offering her accommodation and financial support. While this could be seen as genuine kindness, it also raises questions about his motives and the power dynamics at play in their relationship.
Vocabulary: Philanthropic - Characterized by or showing concern for the welfare of others, especially through generous donations of money to good causes.
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Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
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This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
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In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
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very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
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I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The Tragedie of Gerald Croft: Quotes, Essay, and Character Analysis
Gerald Croft is a complex character in J.B. Priestley's play "An Inspector Calls". He initially aligns with the older generation's traditional views but later reveals moral ambiguity. Gerald Croft quotesand actions throughout the play demonstrate his oscillation... Show more
Gerald Croft in Act 2
Act 2 delves deeper into Gerald's character, particularly through his relationship with Daisy Renton (Eva Smith). His actions and words reveal a complex mix of genuine concern and self-serving behavior, challenging the audience's perception of his moral standing.
Gerald's defense of his affair with Daisy to Mrs. Birling, claiming that it "wasn't disgusting," shows a willingness to stand up for Daisy's honor. This moment potentially redeems him somewhat in the eyes of the audience, suggesting that his feelings for Daisy may have been more than purely selfish.
Quote: "I didn't feel about her as she felt about me"
However, this statement also reveals Gerald's emotional detachment and his tendency to maintain control over his feelings. It suggests a level of callousness in his treatment of Daisy, despite his apparent kindness.
The act further explores Gerald's role in Daisy's life, including his decision to house and financially support her. While on the surface this appears generous, it also raises questions about the power dynamics in their relationship.
Highlight: Gerald's financial support of Daisy puts her in a position of dependence, potentially making it difficult for her to refuse his advances or assert her own wishes.
Priestley uses Gerald's character to examine the ways in which privilege and class can be used to manipulate and control others, even under the guise of benevolence. This adds depth to the play's exploration of social responsibility and the abuse of power.
Example: By funding and housing Daisy, Gerald creates a situation where she may feel obligated to him, blurring the lines between genuine kindness and exploitation.
The act concludes with a more nuanced portrayal of Gerald, showing him as neither wholly good nor entirely self-serving. This complexity adds depth to his character and contributes to the play's overall themes of moral ambiguity and social critique.
Vocabulary: Moral ambiguity - A lack of certainty about whether something is right or wrong.
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Gerald Croft in Act 1
Gerald Croft's character is introduced in Act 1 of "An Inspector Calls", immediately aligning himself with the older generation represented by Mr. and Mrs. Birling. His initial portrayal sets the stage for the audience to form opinions about his views on class and gender roles in society.
Highlight: Gerald's early alignment with the Birlings establishes him as a representative of traditional upper-class values.
Gerald's support for Mr. Birling's decision to fire Eva Smith is evident in his statement, "you couldn't have done anything else". This comment reveals Gerald's adherence to conventional class hierarchies and his belief in the right of employers to treat workers as they see fit.
Quote: "We're responsible citizens and not criminals"
This assertion by Gerald ironically foreshadows the revelations to come. It suggests that Gerald genuinely believes in the moral superiority of his social class, despite the transgressions that will be uncovered later in the play.
Priestley uses Gerald's character to explore the concept of moral ambiguity in society. The playwright suggests that there is often little difference between those considered respectable citizens and those labeled as criminals, particularly when it comes to the treatment of vulnerable individuals like Eva Smith.
Definition: Moral ambiguity refers to the lack of clarity between right and wrong in certain situations, often blurring the lines between ethical and unethical behavior.
Gerald's high opinion of himself is hinted at early in the play, setting the stage for the revelation of his narcissistic tendencies later on. This self-importance is evident in how he interprets and recounts his interactions with Daisy Renton (Eva Smith).
Example: Gerald's interpretation of Daisy Renton's glance as "nothing less than a cry for help" demonstrates his tendency to see himself as a heroic figure.
The act concludes with Gerald positioning himself as a philanthropic savior to Daisy Renton, offering her accommodation and financial support. While this could be seen as genuine kindness, it also raises questions about his motives and the power dynamics at play in their relationship.
Vocabulary: Philanthropic - Characterized by or showing concern for the welfare of others, especially through generous donations of money to good causes.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
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The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
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very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
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I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user