A Doll's House

Definition

A Doll's House is a three-act play written by Henrik Ibsen, first performed in 1879, that explores the theme of marriage and the quest for identity. It tells the story of Nora Helmer, who initially appears to be a submissive wife but ultimately seeks independence and self-realization, challenging the traditional roles of women in society. This play marked a significant shift in the portrayal of women on stage and is often regarded as a catalyst for modern realistic drama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A Doll's House was groundbreaking for its time because it presented a female protagonist who challenged societal expectations, ultimately leaving her husband and children to find her own identity.
2. The play's famous closing door symbolizes Nora's departure from her past life and her determination to seek personal freedom.
3. Ibsen's work was controversial and sparked debates about gender roles, morality, and the institution of marriage when it was first performed.
4. The character of Torvald Helmer represents the patriarchal values of society, contrasting with Nora's evolving sense of self and desire for independence.
5. A Doll's House is often credited with paving the way for future feminist literature and theatre, influencing generations of playwrights and actors.

Review Questions

• How does A Doll's House reflect the characteristics of early realism in theatre?
  • A Doll's House embodies early realism by presenting relatable characters and situations that reflect everyday life. Ibsen focuses on the domestic sphere, showcasing the complexities of marriage and personal identity rather than grandiose themes typical of earlier theatrical works. The dialogue is naturalistic, and the characters' struggles highlight social issues related to gender roles, making it a pivotal example of realistic drama.
• In what ways did A Doll's House influence the Independent Theatre Movement?
  • A Doll's House significantly influenced the Independent Theatre Movement by demonstrating the potential for theatre to address pressing social issues. The play's realistic portrayal of a woman's quest for independence inspired independent theatre groups to select works that challenged societal norms and fostered discussion about topics such as gender equality. Its success encouraged a focus on more serious and socially relevant plays, distancing from commercial theatre.
• Evaluate the impact of A Doll's House on modern drama and its role in shaping feminist themes in theatre.
  • A Doll's House had a profound impact on modern drama, as it broke away from traditional narratives and introduced complex female characters grappling with their identities. The play paved the way for feminist themes by highlighting women's struggles against societal constraints, urging audiences to reconsider their views on marriage and gender roles. Its legacy continues to resonate in contemporary theatre, as it inspires new works that explore similar themes of autonomy and self-discovery.

Related terms

Realism: A movement in the arts that sought to represent everyday life and ordinary people, often focusing on social issues and the complexities of human behavior.

Henrik Ibsen: A Norwegian playwright and director, considered one of the founders of modern realism in theatre, whose works often critiqued societal norms and explored psychological depth.

Independent Theatre Movement: A movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that aimed to produce plays that tackled social issues and represented real life, often outside the constraints of commercial theatre.