How Does Torvald React when he Finds out About Nora’s Debts?
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.
Answer
How does Torvald react when he finds out about Nora’s debts? [NU: 2017]
Henrik Ibsen’s (1828–1906) “A Doll’s House” (1879) shows truth and hypocrisy inside a family. The most powerful scene is Torvald’s reaction to Nora’s debts. His response reveals his selfish pride, his cruelty, and the final collapse of their marriage.
Shock and Anger after Reading the Letter: Torvald discovers Nora’s forgery when he opens Krogstad’s first letter. His reaction is harsh and selfish. He shouts,
“You have destroyed all my happiness.”
He does not thank Nora for saving his life. He forgets her sacrifice. Instead, he thinks only about his honour. He says she is unfit to raise their children. He plans to keep her hidden in the house, but never trust her again. His reaction shows cruelty and fear, not love.
Relief and False Forgiveness after the Second Letter: Soon, another letter arrives from Krogstad. He returns the bond. Now Torvald’s honour is safe. His anger disappears. He quickly changes and forgives Nora. But this forgiveness is false. He forgives her only because his reputation is safe. His sudden change shows his hypocrisy. He proves that he cares more for social image than for his wife’s feelings.
Nora’s Awakening after Torvald’s Reaction: Nora expected a miracle. She thought Torvald would protect her by taking the blame. Instead, she sees his selfishness. She says,
“You have never loved me. You have only thought it pleasant to be in love with me.”
Torvald’s reaction opens her eyes. She understands that she has lived like a doll. This discovery makes her leave the Helmer house. She slams the door. It ends both the marriage and the doll’s house.
Torvald’s reaction to Nora’s debts shows his true character. First, he reacts with anger, then he forgives with selfish relief. His cruelty and hypocrisy destroy Nora’s faith. His reaction leads to Nora’s awakening and her final decision to leave.