What Role Does Hereditary Disease Play in “A Doll’s House?”
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, to various questions of A Doll’s House.
Answer
What role does hereditary disease play in “A Doll’s House?”
Henrik Ibsen (1828-1906) masterfully incorporates the theme of hereditary disease in “A Doll’s House” (1879). The mention of inherited illness in the play is more than just a background detail. It symbolizes the deep-rooted social issues and reflects the impact of past generations on the present. This theme plays a significant role in the play’s portrayal of societal expectations and personal struggles.
Dr. Rank’s Illness as a Symbol of Moral Decay: The hereditary disease is most explicitly depicted through Dr. Rank’s condition. He suffers from spinal tuberculosis, which he inherited from his father. His father lived a life of excess and indulgence. Dr. Rank states,
My poor innocent spine must pay for the fun my father had.
The disease is a metaphor for the moral corruption passed down from generation to generation.
Moral Inheritance and Social Judgment: Dr. Rank’s inherited disease is not just physical. It also represents the moral inheritance and judgment passed from society. His suffering and impending death reflect the rigid societal norms that dictate behavior and punishment.
Nora’s Hidden Fears and Social Pressure: Dr. Rank’s illness symbolizes Nora’s fear of societal judgment. Just as Dr. Rank suffers due to an inherited condition, Nora is metaphorically “infected” by societal norms that demand she conform to the role of an obedient wife.
Contrast Between Dr. Rank’s and Torvald’s Worldview: While Dr. Rank openly acknowledges his inherited illness, Torvald clings to an idealistic image of moral purity. He condemns Krogstad’s forgery as a corrupting influence, stating that
An atmosphere of lies infects and poisons the whole life of a home.
Dr. Rank’s acceptance of his condition contrasts Torvald’s refusal to confront reality.
In A Doll’s House, hereditary disease symbolizes the burdens passed from generation to generation. Dr. Rank’s illness is a metaphor for societal decay. It also reflects how the past influences the present.