As one of the first “Modern plays,” Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House was revolutionary–audience’s hadn’t seen anything like it before. Why do you think A Doll’s House was so impactful to a nineteenth century audience and how might it still be relevant today? Answer one or more of the following questions below (or choose another angle) to help focus your response:
1. Do you find credible the change in Noras character from the first scene to the last? Why would Noras statement that she has a duty toward herself be so astonishing to a 19th century audience?
2. To what extent is Nora a victim of society? Of Torvald? Of herself?
3. What is your response to Krogstad or Torvald? To what extent are they victims of society?
4. Critics disagree about the necessity for Noras leaving. A few critics think Nora will return. Do you believe she made the right decision? Is it possible for her to return? Do you think the door heard around the world had a positive or negative effect on marriage in 19th Century Norway (and abroad)?
5. What is the theme of the play?
Link to Source:
https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2542/2542-h/2542-h.htm
