Do both parts 1 & 2
1) The Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen introduces you to a new literary genre that of Drama. A Doll’s House is a pioneering work of realism and a foundational work of modern drama. Ibsen explores the ways in which traditional marriage works and the roles of the husband (Torvald) and the wife (Nora) and the deep conflicts that arise in the marriage. In many ways A Doll’s House has contemporary significance because over 60% of marriages in the U.S. breakdown over the issue of money. While money seems to be the central conflict in the marriage of Nora and Torvald, as we get deeper into the play we begin to realize that there are other, deeper issues between them having to do with how Torvald treats Nora and thinks about her and her own yielding nature and desire to avoid conflict.
a) What are the elements of realism that you notice in the play?
b) Compare and contrast the character of Mrs. Linde and Nora – remember that there are a lot of similarities between them as well as differences.
2) Nora’s final act in the play (of slamming the front door and walking out) is one of the most well known and celebrated acts of courage and determination. It created huge controversy in its own time and was much discussed and debated all over Europe. Some critics wanted the ending changed because they thought it would be too inflammatory. Remember this is a time when the middle class is just coming up and there are very few respectable options available to a divorced and separated woman in terms of job opportunities or a place in “polite” society. For Nora to give priority to her own “education” and growth and step away from the family is a very huge step, though we must remember that she has been secretly providing for and taking charge of her family for some time (when Torvald is sick, when her father is dying).
a) How do you understand the character of Nora in the beginning and at the end? How and why does she undergo such a drastic change in Act 111 of the play?
b) How do you understand the role of Dr. Rank and his relationship with both Nora and Torvald in the play?
