Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Henrik Ibsen’s *A Doll’s House*, published in 1879, is a landmark play in feminist literature, sharply critiquing the restrictive roles assigned to women in Victorian society. The play centers around Nora Helmer’s awakening to the suffocating nature of her marriage and her eventual decision to leave her husband and children in pursuit of self-discovery. Crucially, the play doesn’t present a monolithic ‘feminist’ stance; rather, it showcases diverse responses to patriarchal structures. Comparing Nora’s journey with that of Kristine Linde, a long-lost friend, reveals contrasting attitudes towards womanhood, duty, and the pursuit of happiness within the confines of societal expectations. Both women grapple with economic and social limitations, but their approaches to navigating these challenges differ significantly, offering a complex portrayal of female experience.
Societal Context: The 19th-Century Woman
To understand the attitudes of Nora and Mrs. Linde, it’s essential to recognize the prevailing societal norms of the 19th century. Women were largely defined by their roles as wives and mothers, expected to be subservient to their husbands and prioritize domesticity. Economic independence was rare, and a woman’s social standing was often tied to her husband’s status. Divorce carried significant social stigma, and women were often denied legal rights and control over their own property and finances. This context heavily influences the choices and perspectives of both characters.
Mrs. Linde: The Pragmatic Survivor
Kristine Linde embodies a more pragmatic and conventional approach to womanhood. Having been widowed for many years, she has experienced hardship and financial insecurity. Her primary concern is survival and providing for her ailing mother and brothers. She views marriage not as a source of romantic fulfillment, but as a practical solution to her economic woes.
- Duty and Sacrifice: Mrs. Linde prioritizes duty and self-sacrifice. She readily accepts Torvald’s offer of a position at the bank, even though it means potentially rekindling a past romantic connection with Krogstad, because it offers her financial stability.
- Acceptance of Societal Norms: She largely accepts the limitations imposed by society and doesn’t challenge the patriarchal structures. Her ambition is not to revolutionize her life, but to secure a comfortable existence within the existing framework.
- Lack of Idealism: Unlike Nora, Mrs. Linde lacks a romanticized view of love and marriage. She understands the compromises and sacrifices required to maintain a household and doesn’t expect emotional fulfillment to be the primary outcome of her union.
Nora Helmer: The Awakening Idealist
Nora, initially presented as a frivolous and childlike figure, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the play. She initially appears to conform to societal expectations, playing the role of the “little lark” and indulging in superficial pleasures. However, beneath the surface lies a growing discontent and a yearning for self-discovery.
- Initial Conformity: Nora initially internalizes societal expectations, seeking validation through her husband’s approval and maintaining a facade of happiness. Her secret loan, taken to save Torvald’s life, highlights her willingness to transgress societal norms, but also her fear of exposure and judgment.
- Rejection of Traditional Roles: As the play progresses, Nora realizes the extent to which she has been treated as a doll, a plaything in Torvald’s house. She rejects the traditional roles assigned to her and asserts her right to individual autonomy.
- Search for Self-Identity: Nora’s decision to leave her husband and children is a radical act of self-assertion. She embarks on a journey to discover her own identity and purpose, independent of her roles as wife and mother.
Comparison and Contrast
The contrasting attitudes of Mrs. Linde and Nora can be summarized in the following table:
| Feature | Mrs. Linde | Nora Helmer |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Motivation | Economic Security & Duty | Self-Discovery & Autonomy |
| View of Marriage | Practical Arrangement | Initially Romanticized, then Recognized as Oppressive |
| Acceptance of Societal Norms | Largely Accepts | Ultimately Rejects |
| Approach to Hardship | Pragmatic & Resilient | Initially Conceals, then Confronts |
| Emotional Expression | Restrained & Practical | Initially Playful, then Increasingly Honest |
While both women face economic constraints, their responses differ drastically. Mrs. Linde seeks security *within* the existing system, while Nora seeks liberation *from* it. Mrs. Linde’s pragmatism stems from years of hardship, while Nora’s idealism is initially naive but ultimately leads to a profound awakening. Their contrasting approaches highlight the diverse ways in which women navigated the complexities of 19th-century society.
Conclusion
In conclusion, *A Doll’s House* presents a nuanced exploration of female experience through the contrasting characters of Mrs. Linde and Nora Helmer. Mrs. Linde embodies the pragmatic resilience of a woman who has learned to survive within the constraints of societal expectations, while Nora represents the burgeoning desire for self-discovery and autonomy. Ibsen doesn’t offer a simple endorsement of either approach, but rather uses their contrasting journeys to expose the limitations imposed upon women and to provoke a critical examination of the prevailing social order. The play’s enduring relevance lies in its continued ability to spark debate about gender roles, individual freedom, and the pursuit of a meaningful life.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.