The Fated Relationship of Torvald and Nora Helmer
In A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen, it seems inevitable that the marriage between Norah and Torvald Helmer should come to an end. Nora is excessively dependent on Torvald, especially for his acceptance and approval. Torvald is exceptionally controlling, diminishing Nora and leaving her feeling trapped within their relationship, with the result that Nora is unable to be truthful with Torvald and other people in her life. Nora and Torvald are equally to blame for the demise of their relationship.
Firstly, the failure of the Helmers’ relationship is partially the result of Nora’s deception. She does not have the strength to tell the truth because she is so desperately seeking Torvald’s approval. Her inability to be real means that the entire relationship is pretend. This deception is to such a degree that it can only be destructive. Nora is unable to tell her husband the truth, even about things she might be proud of, because she is unable to trust him and feels imprisoned by their relationship. For instance, when Mrs. Linde asks her how she got the money to pay for their trip to Italy to save Torvald’s life and whether she is planning on telling Torvald, Nora replies “But I couldn’t possibly tell him.” (A Doll’s House, 27). These restrictions are illustrated when Nora goes on to say “He has such strict rules about these sorts of things.” (A Doll’s House, 28). Furthermore, Nora lies and sacrifices her reputation for Torvald’s sake. For example, Nora signs a loan in order to get money for their vacation so Torvald can improve his health. However, women could not sign for loans without a man signing as well. When Nils Krogstad confronts her and accuses her of forging her father’s signature, she admits to lying and said “I signed Papa’s name.” (A Doll’s House, 45). Similarly, Nora is untruthful about telling the truth. When Torvald asks her whether she has been eating macaroons behind his back, and...