Living in A Dolls House
Imagine living completely undermined by the values of society, never being able to manage your own life, and being compelled to live devalued by husband, household and business life. Henrik Ibsen portrays this idea through his play, A Doll’s House. With the intent to change the society of the 19th century, his controversial suggestion of equality between men and women throughout each aspect of life is displayed throughout the play. Nora, the protagonist, who is representing the women of Ibsens time period, must overcome multiple conflicts in order to achieve the ultimate goal of gaining equal respect. Throughout the piece, Nora begins to confront her reputation and openly face problems involving her own character, as well as her family, friends and the illicitly flawed values of the community. Changing the values and morals of society would benefit Nora and the many women of her time, while also paying respect to the millions of women that came before her. Forming a complete contrast from society, Henrik Ibsen suggests that in order to find happiness, you must first find your own identity.
After being married to her condescending husband for eight years, Nora finally proposes that she has had a “great injustice” (204) done to her by her husband. Torvald is the flat, stereotypical character of the play who is portraying all modern-day men in
Ibsens time. The lack of respect given to a woman encouraged Ibsen to create Torvalds character with the goal of equalizing men and women. Becoming familiar with the childish tone of her life which is a result of Nora having to possess the same beliefs that her father had has led her to built up anger. As soon as she was “passed from her father's hands into Torvalds” (204) she felt forced to acquire his tastes. Following his rules, and also breaking them privately from time to time, Nora begins to notice how sardonic Torvald is as soon as he stereotypes her as a woman. She compares her life to...