Ibsen, A Doll’s House
1. The relationship between Helmer and Nora has often been understood as one of power versus influence. Explain.
The relationship between Torvald and Nora is the classic husband/wife dynamic. Nora is the textbook wife and mother in 19th century Europe. She does all of the cooking and cleaning around the house. Her role is that of the standard housewife at the time. Torvald is the archetypal male. He works at a bank and he is largely distant at the house. Torvald held the most power in the relationship. However, Nora holds some influence over her husband. She uses her influence to derive meaning and autonomy in her life. She uses her power to influence her husband’s bank policy. He takes her ideas and implements some of
1. The relationship between Helmer and Nora has often been understood as one of power versus influence. Explain.
The relationship between Torvald and Nora is the classic husband/wife dynamic. Nora is the textbook wife and mother in 19th century Europe. She does all of the cooking and cleaning around the house. Her role is that of the standard housewife at the time. Torvald is the archetypal male. He works at a bank and he is largely distant at the house. Torvald held the most power in the relationship. However, Nora holds some influence over her husband. She uses her influence to derive meaning and autonomy in her life. She uses her power to influence her husband’s bank policy. He takes her ideas and implements some of