A doll's house critics

What did Ibsen (1879) write about laws in his notes for a modern tragedy?

There are two kinds of laws […] one for men and one, quite different, for women.

Caird (1888) : “the economical independence…”

The economical independence of woman is the first condition of free marriage

What does Byatt (2009) find every time he reads the play?

Every time I read the play I find myself judging Nora with less and less sympathy.

Why does Hathaway argue that Nora is not foolish?

It displays a pragmatic understanding of her need to play various roles as demanded of her by society

Who does Hathaway (2018) argue is actually the doll?

It is Torvold who is far more of a doll than Nora.

What does Duncan believe Rank’s death shows?

Rank’s terminal departure from the play can be seen as evidence of the inevitability of hereditary and as parents destruction of their children

Why does Hathaway (2018) think Torvold is the doll rather than Nora?

Whereas Nora self-consciously plays roles, and through these roles is able to assert herself, Torvold is just a man who is blind to the limitations placed on him by society. / Torvold is unable to see beyond his role as a man who provides.

What does Hathaway (2018) propose Torvold represents?

As a representative of the rising Norweigan Middle Class, Torvold values reputation and social standing above all else.

What role does Scott argue get switched?

The man becomes the hysterical woman and the woman becomes the sullen, determined man.

What does Worrall say about the power dynamic between Nora and Torvold?

Torvald's "security depends upon feeling superior. The games he and Nora play all seem designed to maintain his role as the dominant male."

What does Boeninger think of Nora's character?

"a childish one; it goes in awe of authority; it is willing to deceive"

Why does Wright think female sexuality is repressed?

A legitimate need for female sexuality to be repressed in order to safeguard the dominance of men

What does Woods think Ibsen is doing?

Ibsen critiques society rather than individuals

What does Ledger see Linde as?

linde acts as a catalyst for nora's rebellion

What does Soloski think is worse than disease?

Though syphilis is depicted as a terrible malady, restrictive social norms are, for Ibsen, the worse disease