A Doll’s House Act I Review

Marriage The main message of A Doll's House seems to be that a true (read: good) marriage is a joining of equals. The play centers on the dissolution of a marriage that doesn't meet these standards. At first the Helmers seem happy... but over the course of the play, the imbalance between them becomes more and more apparent. How are ideas of marriage different today than during the time period of the play? How are they similar?

Money Early in A Doll's House, the characters spend a good deal of time talking about their finances. Some are on the upswing, with the promise of free-flowing cash in the future. Others are struggling to make ends meet. Either way, each character's financial status seems to be a defining feature.

What is the relationship between money and power in the play? Which is more valuable to Krogstad: money or reputation? Why do you think Torvald is so horrified of debt? In what ways has financial hardship made Christine a stronger person?

Respect and Reputation The men of A Doll's House are obsessed with their reputations. Some have good standing in their communities and will do anything to keep it, others have lost their good name and will do anything to get it back. Though the play is set in the living room of a private residence, the public eye is constantly peeking through the curtains

Why is scandal so scary for Torvald? What methods does Krogstad use to try to regain his reputation? Does Dr. Rank seem concerned with reputation in any way? Why or why not? In what ways do the women in the play demonstrate concern or lack of concern for their reputations?