A Doll’s House Act 1 follow up

Sebastian Cabrera and Isabella Villegas

1. What is the importance of the opening scene of the play?

In the opening scene of the play, we can observe the marriage interaction and the roles
that each one has in their household and in society. The setting, mood, and
foreshadowing create tension that gives the audience an idea of how the story will
develop. For example: Nora's secret, which is central to the plot, is hinted at, and the
symbolism of the Christmas tree highlights the theme of appearance versus reality.

2. Analysis questions
- What is significant about the setting of Christmas here?
The Christmas tree is significant in this scene because traditionally Christmas is related
to joy, family warmth, and perfection. While the mother of the family, Nora keeps a big
secret that can harm everyone. It is shown how Nora hides secrets from her family,
especially her husband, using appearances.
- How is the setting representative to define Nora’s condition?
Nora is expected to create a perfect Christmas for her family, which puts immense
pressure on her to maintain the illusion of a happy home. In a way, she is trapped in a
role that she must play, which hides her true feelings and financial secrets from her. The
setting symbolizes the confinement and artifice of her life.
- How can you connect Nora with the tree itself?
We can compare them so that from the outside, judging by their appearance, we can
see something put together. Each one has its appearance meticulously arranged,
without leaving any detail aside, showing its perfection and beauty.
- What do you think is the meaning of the word ‘dollhouse’ in the context given by
Ibsen?
Refers to the Helmer house, which is like a dollhouse in the sense that it was created
for display. In this dollhouse, everything is meticulously chosen to create the illusion of a
perfect family. Nora and Torvald play their roles like dolls, adhering to social norms and
expectations, but beneath the surface, reality is quite different.
- What role does Kristine play in this Act? What is important about her character? (the
last idea mentioned was that it shows two opposites)
Kristine's character is important in Act 1 as she provides a contrast to Nora’s “perfect”
family and economic stability. It also reveals the secrets and the cover-up of Nora's life.
3. Characters analysis: (7 points)
To the question ‘Who is someone’, there are multiple layers of hidden meaning, so to
ask ‘Who is Torvald’ or ‘Who is Nora’ requires deeper analysis. (for inference, use
indirect characterization)
1. How does Torvald define the role of women? Of mothers? (infer from dialogue,
attitude, behavior)
He sees women as people who have the role of taking care of the house and children.
She cannot know the mistakes, only the achievements of her husband, she cannot
worry about the economy, only spend what her husband brings home. “And I would not
wish you to be anything but just what you are, my sweet little skylark”. He wants her to
remain innocent and pure for him, without worries.
2. How does Nora define the role of women? Of mothers? Of wives? (infer from
dialogue, attitude, behavior)
Nora adheres to conventional gender roles and social expectations of women of her
time. Her way of presenting her financial problems is to say that she had to work
secretly from her husband, instead of staying at home taking care of her children.

3. Is the “dollhouse” Nora’s dream too? Or just Torvald’s?

The dollhouse is the dream of both but in different areas. Nora wants to have a house
that looks good in everyone's eyes and makes them believe they have the perfect life.
Torvald's dream is more about feeling satisfied with his efforts and with himself, who is
giving a decent life to his wife and his children.
4. Do you agree with Torvald about immoral actions poisoning a household and
children?
Having secrets can cause marital problems that cause conflict or consequences with
your children because they learn things they should not know about their parents.
Immoral actions can poison a household and negatively affect children because they
create an unhealthy environment, erode trust, and have lasting psychological and
emotional consequences.
5. Does Nora’s character change in your eyes? Is she simply child-like? Or is she
something more?
Nora is primarily portrayed as a character who appears child-like and submissive,
conforming to the societal norms and expectations of her time. In Act 1, there are hints
of complexity in Nora's character. Her willingness to take risks and her determination to
save her husband's life through her actions demonstrate a sense of resourcefulness
and intelligence. Her inner strength is gradually revealed as the play progresses.
6. Do you agree with Krogstad that “the law doesn’t ask motives”? Or with Nora who
says “then it is a bad law”?
We agree with “the law doesn't ask motives" because if the law changes for one person,
it must change for everyone, and it would no longer be a fair system.
7. Consider the ideology of gender:
Gender ideology shows social norms and expectations related to being a man or a
woman. It determines how individuals are perceived and treated and has historically
limited opportunities based on gender. Challenging traditional gender ideologies is
crucial to promoting inclusion, recognizing gender diversity and promoting gender
equality.