Both Gerald and Eric had a relationship with Eva Smith, although the way they treated her was different and this exact way illustrates some aspects of their character. Behind their attitudes towards the girl, a deep contrast of their character is hidden.

To begin with, Gerald finally admits he was flattered by the girl's love and admiration but says he was not in love with her. What he did was to take care of the girl for a short time and in a nutshell he mends well. According to him, he made her day and helped her to stand up and get out of the deep water she was before. Nevertheless, it is evident by his sayings that he didn't love her. When her death is announced he doesn't feel sorry in the slihgtest and he only seems concerned of the possibility of a public scandal as the Birlings do.

On the other hand, Eric drinks far more than it is good for him and as a result he forced the girl into a relationship, which had disastrous concecuences. He also stole money to support the girl.What's more, he is awkward, he had forced his way in the girl's home, made her pregnant and stolen money. Yet, he is not hidden behind a superficial wall, just to alleviate his fears of being guilt as the birlings and Gerald do, but he seems pretty concience-strucked. He has been taught by his mistakes and is going to become better.

All in all, needless to say that both Gerald and Eric are in charge of Eva's death.However what differs is how and in what extent every one of them has changed for the better and it is illustrated that the crack of the new generation is filled with more hope and moral integrity for our world and Pristley seems to be one be all for this.