A Doll’s House: Social Commentary on Male Dominance

Mrs. Linde, her ignorance becomes glaringly obvious. Nora naively believes she has achieved something to be proud of and tries to convince others that she is not childish. This ignorance is further highlighted when Krogstad confronts her about the forgery she committed for the loan. Krogstad warns Nora of the legal consequences she could face, but she fails to grasp the seriousness of breaking the law. Nora tries to deny any wrongdoing and insists that her actions were justified, completely oblivious to the fact that she broke the law. She rationalizes that she saved her husband's life with the money, considering it a justifiable act.The text emphasizes the protagonist's realization that she must confront the truth and abandon her sheltered existence. A Doll's House effectively portrays the author's resentment towards an unequal and divisive society. Nora's ignorance is a result of the manipulation by men, who use it as a means of suppression. The play highlights the flaws of the society and culture of the time period through the example of Nora taking a loan. It tackles the issue of women not being taken seriously or allowed to think for themselves. The piece aims to raise awareness about the problems inherent in a structured society, employing relatable everyday instances to convey its message. Nora's experiences of her own ignorance being used against her prompt a deeper exploration of power dynamics. Throughout her life, Nora has been controlled by men, first her father and then her husband, rendering her as nothing more than a doll to be owned. As the play nears its end, Nora questions why she and her husband have never engaged in serious

conversations, to which he dismissively responds that it wouldn't benefit her. He admires her beauty and takes pride in owning her, valuing her consent and appearance above all else. Nora mistakenly believes she has some form of control, when in reality she is merely a puppet.Furthermore, the dominant theme of power and control is evident in the relationship between Krogstad and Nora. Krogstad is using the knowledge of Nora's secret to blackmail her, thereby exerting control over her. This is a reflection of the societal norms during Ibsen's time, where women had very little power and were constantly controlled by men in superior positions. Society dictates that women have no alternatives but to succumb to this power dynamic. Similarly, Helmer has influence over Krogstad, as he has the ability to fire him and ruin his social standing. This unspoken law holds true in most cases, except for the relationship between Krogstad and Mrs. Linde. In this case, Mrs. Linde has power over Krogstad because he is in love with her, allowing her to control his actions and potentially save Nora by exploiting his feelings towards her. The theme of power and control permeates throughout the play. Ultimately, Nora decides to embark on a new life on her own, realizing that she has always been at the mercy of men's control. Her decision signifies a rebirth and independence as she chooses to leave Helmer behind and live life on her own terms. Nora's former existence as an object rather than a person has been shaped by societal expectations and her own ignorance.Nora, after leaving her husband and children, discovers her own identity and independence. In the

play, she informs Helmer that she needs to educate herself on her own. Nora's liberation allows her to escape the control of Krogstad and her husband. A Doll's House aims to shed light on the issue of women's lack of agency during this time period. The play critiques the societal structure and reveals how men disregard and control their wives. Nora reflects on how her father treated her as a doll rather than a person.Nora and Helmer are not acquainted with each other, their marriage is a sham and is based on social standing. It is not a genuine bond and this lack of love is one of the reasons why Nora feels compelled to leave. Nora expresses to Helmer, "I am a human being, just like you - or at least, I should strive to be one. I understand that most people think you are right..." (Ibsen 609). The majority referred to here are the men in society who held all the control during that era. A Doll's House provides an extensive and impactful social and cultural commentary on nineteenth century Scandinavia. The play strongly disapproves of the unequal structure and hierarchy between men and women. Its message is somber yet powerful, but it does not offer any solutions. The play aims to make people acknowledge that facing the truth, no matter how painful, is necessary for any progress to occur.