Throughout the play, “A Doll’s House”, Henrik Ibsen conveys a sense of realism in numerous ways and using various techniques. Theatrical realism was a general movement of the 19th century characterised by the accurate portrayal of everyday life and social conventions. Premiered in the 1879, Denmark, “A Doll’s House” initially received heavy criticism for its controversial attitude towards marriage norms and the role of women in society. In a Victorian society dominated by men, Ibsen saw the injustice that existed with regard to the position of women. As reflected by the character Nora, Ibsen was well known for producing women who were powerful, strong willed and independent characters. Through his plays, he was able to “modernise” theatrical
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To what extent can the play be considered realistic? The play undoubtedly follows through as a true example of realism. The ending itself signifies a transformation. The play’s conclusion is consistent with the way the characters and the events develop into. There are no surprises and no “happy ending”. Nora appears to abandon her husband and her children for her own valid reasons. As far as the play is concerned with realism, there is no requirement for a “happy ending”; but just one that would accurately reflect fidelity to the way the characters have developed. The pressure of a strict Victorian society is undeniably the driving force which ignites the play’s central conflicts. The issue of women’s rights and society’s pressure regarding the role of women is certainly one that is of utmost importance; perhaps one that has yet been resolved. Ibsen questions society while using Nora as a vessel to illustrate or bring to life his views on society. Henrik Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House” is a prime example of an imperfect society where many social issues existed. Through theatrical realism, Ibsen was trying to explore the negative face of society. The idea of a perfect society may yet be a utopian belief. It is however only by addressing these issues that society can further develop and progress to the benefit of the human
To what extent can the play be considered realistic? The play undoubtedly follows through as a true example of realism. The ending itself signifies a transformation. The play’s conclusion is consistent with the way the characters and the events develop into. There are no surprises and no “happy ending”. Nora appears to abandon her husband and her children for her own valid reasons. As far as the play is concerned with realism, there is no requirement for a “happy ending”; but just one that would accurately reflect fidelity to the way the characters have developed. The pressure of a strict Victorian society is undeniably the driving force which ignites the play’s central conflicts. The issue of women’s rights and society’s pressure regarding the role of women is certainly one that is of utmost importance; perhaps one that has yet been resolved. Ibsen questions society while using Nora as a vessel to illustrate or bring to life his views on society. Henrik Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House” is a prime example of an imperfect society where many social issues existed. Through theatrical realism, Ibsen was trying to explore the negative face of society. The idea of a perfect society may yet be a utopian belief. It is however only by addressing these issues that society can further develop and progress to the benefit of the human