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Jess Dodwell
10/30/2025
English Literature
An Inspector Calls: Gerald Croft
1,150
•
Oct 30, 2025
•
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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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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. 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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. 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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
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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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
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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 specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the 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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. 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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. 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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user