A Doll’s House : Themes

Themes

Themes

Freedom and Self-Respect: The most important theme of the play is women’s freedom and self-respect. Nora Helmer realizes that she has always lived like a “doll” in the houses of her father and her husband, Torvald Helmer. She never had the freedom of will, opinion, or decision. In the end, she declares that her first duty is toward herself. Therefore, she leaves her husband and children to discover her own identity. This theme stands as a historic declaration of women’s self-respect and independent existence.

Marriage and Gender Roles: The play questions traditional ideas of marriage and the roles of husband and wife. Torvald believes that a wife should always remain obedient and submissive. He calls Nora by pet names such as “lark” or “squirrel,” which symbolize control disguised as affection. Nora realizes that their relationship is not equal. Torvald does not see her as a human being, but rather as a toy or a decorative object. This theme shows how 19th-century social gender roles suppressed women.

Deception and Concealment of Truth: The story of the play begins with Nora’s secret deception. To save her husband’s life, she forges her father’s signature and borrows money from Krogstad. Although her intention was noble, in the eyes of society, this was a crime. This hidden truth keeps Nora in constant fear and allows Krogstad to blackmail her. The play demonstrates that sometimes deception, even if born out of love and responsibility, can lead to disastrous consequences.

The Importance of Society and Reputation: For Torvald, social status and reputation matter more than anything else. When he reads Krogstad’s letter and scolds Nora, his greatest fear is the possibility of public scandal. He worries more about his image than about protecting his wife. Later, when everything is resolved, he tries to show love to Nora again. This theme proves how society’s judgment can control and even distort family relationships.