Gender

Question 1

Introduction

Answer 1

Critiques genders inequality

males uphold traditional gender roles - deeply ingrained

Sheila attempts to challenge these stereotypes

Question 2

Y.H.T.G.U.T.I.J.A.I.D

Answer 2

You’ll have to get used to that just as I did

Mrs. Birling’s advice to Sheila reflects gender norms of her time, where women submitted to the patriarchy
Priestley critiques the generational cycle of gender inequality

Question 3

W.I.C.A.J.T.R.M.T.W.C

Answer 3

Well it came at just the right moment. That was clever

Mrs Birling’s comment about the timing of the Gerald’s proposal reinforces the idea that women are often seen as tools, where their emotions are considered secondary.
Priestley uses this to highlight the gender disparities within the upper class.

Question 4

G.O.T.C

Answer 4

Girls of that class

Mrs. Birling’s reference to “girls of that class” exposes her classist and gendered prejudice.
This statement highlights the intersectionality of gender and class oppression, where women are doubly disadvantaged by both their gender and social class

Question 5

S.B.L.M.T.H.O.OT

Answer 5

She’d better let me take her out of there

Gerald’s possessive attitude towards Eva reflects patriarchal entitlement
Priestley critiques this male-dominated mindset, where women’s agency is suppressed under the guise of ‘protection.’

Question 6

I.W.I.W.H.S.W.P.A.A.G.S

Answer 6

I wasn’t in love with her… she was pretty and a good sport

Gerald’s detached statement reveals the objectification of women, seeing them as mere physical objects to be consumed.
This highlights the gender power imbalance, where women are valued for their looks and compliance

Question 7

I.W.I.T.S.W.A.C.E.T.N

Answer 7

I was in that state when a chap easily turns nasty

Eric’s justification for his behaviour reflects the gendered excuses often made for male misconduct
Priestley critiques this societal norm that absolves men from accountability by framing their behaviour as innate

Question 8

E.I.A.N.S.W.A.T.R

Answer 8

Everything is alright now, Sheila. What about this ring?

Gerald’s return to the engagement ring after the events with Eva shows his attempt to restore the status quo
This reinforces the patriarchal view that women’s emotional growth is secondary to maintaining male authority.

Question 9

N.N.Y.I.T.S.I.M.T

Answer 9

No not yet it’s too soon, I must think

Sheila’s pause reflects her emotional maturity and her growing independence
Priestley uses Sheila’s evolving sense of self to demonstrate how women can challenge gendered societal expectations