|
|
In the work A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen, Nora Helmer is the protagonist of the play. Having never lived alone, going immediately from the care of her father to that of her husband, Nora is inexperienced in the ways of the world. As a result of this sheltering, Nora is impulsive and materialistic. She is the wife of a pride-driven Torvald Helmer and the mother of three small children. Initially, Nora appears to have a perfect life. She seems completely content with her surroundings and her place in society as a wife and mother. Nora responds affectionately to Torvald’s teasing, speaks with excitement about the extra money his new job will give them, and takes pleasure in the company of her children and friends. Nora seems like a playful, naïve child who does not mind her doll-like existence in which she is coddled, patronized and pampered. However, as the play moves forward, she comes to see her position in her marriage with increasing clarity and finds the strength to free herself from her oppressive situation. As A Doll’s House progresses, Nora reveals that she is not just a “silly girl” or “stupid child”, as Torvald calls her. (p. 214, 230) When she confides in Mrs. Linde about having saved Torvald’s life by secretly procuring a loan, Nora’s understanding of business details related to her debt indicates that she is intelligent and possesses capacities beyond mere wifehood. Her description of her years of secret labour undertaken to pay off her debt manifests her fierce determination and ambition.
|
