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Consider “A Doll’s House” as a modern tragedy

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A Doll’s House is a notable literary work by Henrik Ibsen. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of A Doll’s House.

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How could “A Doll’s House” be considered a modern tragedy? [NU: 2020, 22] ★★★

Or, Consider “A Doll’s House” as a modern tragedy. [NU: 2017]

Henrik Ibsen’s (1828–1906) “A Doll’s House” (1879) is a modern tragedy. It is set in the Helmer’s living room. The characters are Nora, Torvald Helmer, Krogstad, Mrs Linde, and Dr Rank. The tragedy comes from secrets, fear, and broken trust. Ibsen shows how ordinary life can become tragic. The play ends with pain, loss, and Nora’s search for freedom.

Tragedy in Ordinary Life: The play begins in a happy home. Nora enters with parcels. She eats macaroons secretly. Torvald calls her “my little lark” and “my squirrel.” But this joy is false. Nora has a secret loan. She tells Mrs Linde, 

“It was I who saved Torvald’s life.” 

She borrowed from Krogstad and forged her father’s name. The Helmer’s living room becomes the stage of tragedy.

Krogstad’s Threat: Krogstad enters. He works at the Bank. Torvald plans to dismiss him. Krogstad knows Nora’s crime. He warns her. He says he will write to Torvald. Nora is afraid. The Christmas tree is shining, but danger hides behind it. Suspense rises. Tragedy begins when a small loan becomes a weapon of fear. Nora’s family happiness is now in danger.

Fear and the Letter-Box: In Act II, the Christmas tree is stripped. Its candles are burnt. It looks dead. Nora fears the letter-box. Dr Rank enters. He says he will die soon. He confesses love for Nora. She is shocked. She cannot ask for help. Krogstad drops a letter into the box. Ibsen says,  

“A letter drops into the box.” 

Nora cries, 

“Torvald, Torvald, there is no hope for us now!” 

The letter-box becomes a symbol of tragedy.

Mrs Linde’s Plan and Torvald’s Hypocrisy: Mrs Linde decides to help. She tells Nora, 

“There was a time when he would gladly do anything for my sake.” 

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