“A Doll’s House” is a play about a woman’s self-discovery and liberation. Discuss
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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“A Doll’s House” is a play about a woman’s self-discovery and liberation. Discuss. [NU: 2019, 21] ★★★
Henrik Ibsen’s (1828–1906) iconic play is “A Doll’s House” (1879). It is set in the Helmers’ living room. The play tells the story of Nora Helmer, her husband Torvald, and their friends Krogstad, Mrs Linde, and Dr Rank. Nora begins as a playful wife, but ends as an awakened woman. The play is about her self-discovery and liberation from social lies.
Nora as a Doll-Wife in a False Home: In the beginning, Nora looks like a happy wife. She enters with Christmas parcels. She eats macaroons secretly. Torvald calls her “my little lark” and “my squirrel.” But these words show control, not love. Nora is treated as a child, not as an equal. She plays the role of a doll in Torvald’s house. This is not freedom. It is the beginning of her journey.
Nora’s Secret Loan and Awakening of Strength: Nora has secretly borrowed money from Krogstad to save Torvald’s life. She says to Mrs Linde,
“It was I who saved Torvald’s life.”
This shows her inner strength. But she forged her father’s name. This is a crime in society. She feels proud but also afraid. This act begins her awakening. She realizes she has the power to act, but society calls her dishonest. The conflict between her courage and the law becomes part of her self-discovery.
The Letter-Box and Nora’s Fear: In Act II, suspense grows. The Christmas tree looks dead. Nora fears the letterbox. She cries,
“Torvald, Torvald, there is no hope for us now!”
Dr Rank confesses his love for her. She is shocked and more alone. Krogstad drops the letter into the box. The truth cannot stay hidden. Nora sees that her sacrifice will soon be revealed. Her fear leads her closer to discovery. She learns that lies cannot save love.
Torvald’s Hypocrisy and Nora’s Realization: In Act III, Torvald reads Krogstad’s letter. He cries,
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