What Role Does Hereditary Disease Play in “A Doll’s House?”

Answer

What role does hereditary disease play in “A Doll’s House?” [NU: 2018, 21] ★★★

Henrik Ibsen’s (1828–1906) “A Doll’s House” (1879) is not only about social hypocrisy but also about physical weakness and hereditary disease. Dr Rank’s illness is inherited from his father. This adds depth to the play. It symbolizes corruption, decay, and the tragic truth of life.

Dr Rank’s Hereditary Disease: Dr Rank suffers from spinal tuberculosis. He says it is inherited from his father’s immoral life. He admits, 

“My poor innocent spine has to suffer for my father’s youthful amusements.” 

This shows how disease can be passed from one generation to another. Rank is innocent, but he suffers for his father’s sins. This is Ibsen’s comment on hereditary burden.

Symbol of Corruption and Decay: Dr Rank’s disease is not just physical. It is symbolic. His dying body reflects the sickness of society. Just as tuberculosis destroys his health, lies and hypocrisy destroy family life. The disease is hidden inside him, just like corruption is hidden inside the Helmer marriage. Rank’s illness warns the audience that hidden sins always bring destruction.

Emotional Effect on the Play: Dr Rank’s illness also creates emotional impact. He confesses to Nora that he will soon die. He leaves his visiting cards with a black cross to announce his death. This moment shocks Nora. She loses her last friend and support. His hereditary disease adds a tragic tone to the play and increases the sense of hopelessness.

Hereditary disease in “A Doll’s House” is shown through Dr Rank’s spinal illness. It is inherited from his father. It symbolizes social decay. It adds tragic depth to the story. Ibsen uses disease as a reminder that corruption, like sickness, passes through generations.