Write a note on the dramatic irony in “A Doll’s House.”

Answer

Write a note on the dramatic irony in “A Doll’s House.” [NU: 2020]

Dramatic irony means the audience knows something that the characters do not. It creates suspense and shock. Henrik Ibsen’s (1828–1906) “A Doll’s House” (1879) is full of dramatic irony. In the Helmer living room, Nora hides her secret loan. Torvald Helmer, Krogstad, Mrs Linde, and Dr Rank act around her. The audience knows her truth. This gap makes the drama powerful.

Nora’s Secret Loan: The biggest irony comes from Nora’s secret loan. The audience learns early that she borrowed money from Krogstad. She says proudly, 

“It was I who saved Torvald’s life.” 

But Torvald does not know. He thinks Nora is only a spendthrift. He calls her “my little lark” and “my squirrel.” The audience sees the gap. Nora is strong inside, but Torvald sees only a child. This is dramatic irony.

Torvald’s Pride and Nora’s Fear: Torvald often says he would face danger for Nora. He tells her he would protect her from anything. But the audience knows that when Krogstad’s letter comes, he will fail. Nora also believes in a miracle. She thinks Torvald will take her guilt. But we see his pride. The irony is that Nora expects love, but we expect betrayal. The suspense grows.

The Letter-Box: The letter-box becomes a stage of irony. The audience knows Krogstad has dropped the letter inside. Ibsen says, 

“A letter drops into the box.” 

Nora cries, 

“Torvald, Torvald, there is no hope for us now!” 

But Torvald is busy with the party and thinks nothing is wrong. He dances with Nora while the truth waits in the box. The audience knows, but Torvald does not. This is perfect dramatic irony.

Mrs Linde and Krogstad: Mrs Linde plays a vital role in the tragic suspense of “A Doll’s House”. She meets Krogstad secretly to help Nora. She says to Nora about her past love relationship with Krogstad. She says, 

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