A Doll's House

We are introduced to Nora Helmer, wife of Torvald Helmer, on Christmas Eve in Norway. She enters the room with an armful of packages and calls Torvald to look at what she bought. Shocked, he enters the living room and teasingly scolds her for her spending habits. Their conversation reveals that Torvald had recently been promoted to a bank manager, giving Nora a reason to indulge in shopping. They both reflect over the last few years when they were in a less privileged position.

Their conversation is interrupted by their maid, announcing the arrival of Dr Rank who is referred to Torvald’s study, and Mrs Linde, Nora’s old friend. Nora and Mrs Linde reconnect, explaining how Mrs Linde is widowed with no fortune or children. Nora then explains her struggle of receiving a loan so they could go on a vacation to save Torvald, as well as slowly paying off her debt. Meanwhile, Krogstad visits Torvald to discuss his position at the bank. However, Torvald conceals the details of their conversation, dismissing it as “bank business.” We then learn that Torvald is planning to dismiss Krogstad, forcing Nora to convince Torvald to not fire him.

After Christmas Eve celebrations, Nora is distressed over the thought of Torvald knowing her crimes, so she tries to distract herself with embroidery. She is interrupted with Dr Rank’s entrance, as he speaks about his impending death due to a disease in his spine. Nora considers using Dr Rank’s emotional vulnerability to inherit his wealth as she flirts with him. However, this leads to Dr Rank confessing his love to Nora, making her uncomfortable. Later, an angry Krogstad blackmails her by telling her he will reveal her crimes to Torvald if she can’t help Krogstad get his position back. Distressed, Nora considers committing suicide as Krogstad leaves the letter in the letter box. To distract Torvald from opening the letter box, she purposefully dances the tarantella wildly so he could “help” her practice for the party. Meanwhile, Mrs Linde learns of Nora’s crimes and offers to help her deal with Krogstad since they were once in love.

Mrs Linde reconnects with Krogstad and suggests the possibility of rekindling their love since both are widows. Krogstad excitedly accepts her offer, and Mrs Linde persuades him to leave the letter for Torvald since she believes it right for him to know. Once Krogstad leaves, Torvald returns, dragging Nora into the living room. Mrs Linde quietly urges Nora to tell Torvald the truth before leaving. Torvald goes to collect the letters. He eventually reads Krogstad’s letters, resulting in him verbally abusing Nora for destroying his happiness and career. However, he instructs Nora to stay so they can maintain their image. During his rage, Krogstad sends another letter with the bond, stating that he will no longer blackmail them. However, Nora finally realises that their marriage hasn’t been genuine; she desires independence and individuality. Distraught, Torvald initially dismisses this, before reluctantly letting Nora experience reality. She leaves with her belongings, slamming the front door.