May 1st- Happy May Day!

A Doll's House Critical Questions:

1.) Discuss potential meanings of the title.

2.) Examine the setting as described by Ibsen.

3.) Irony plays an important role in this play. Track and explicate ironic components as you see
them.

4.) Ibsen makes use of foils to expose traits in his two main characters. While viewing, consider how Krogstad and Dr. Rank act as foils to Torvald, and how Mrs. Linde acts as a foil to Nora.

5.) What are the various functions of Nora’s conversation with Mrs. Linde? Consider it from these perspectives:
     a.) the exposition of prior events and the definition of Nora’s dilemma
     b.) further revelations of Nora’s character, both in the past and during the conversation
     c.) the insight into herself that Nora gains from Mrs. Linde’s history
     d.) definitions of legal and moral standards of the time indicated by the prior actions of
          both women.

6.) Some histories of the tarantella dance explain that it is used to fight off the venomous effects of a spider bite. Other interpretations suggest it represents a woman’s frustration in oppression. Which of these explanations best fits Nora’s violent practice at the end of Act II? Explain.

7.) Nora says that “our house has never been anything but a playroom.” Discuss the significance of this statement. Consider the title of the play and Nora’s characterization throughout the play.