Question

Read the excerpt from act 2 of A Doll's House.

Helmer: And it is just by interceding for him that you make it impossible for me to keep him. It is already known at the Bank that I mean to dismiss Krogstad. Is it to get about now that the new manager has changed his mind at his wife's bidding—

Nora: And what if it did?

Helmer: Of course!—if only this obstinate little person can get her way! Do you suppose I am going to make myself ridiculous before my whole staff, to let people think that I am a man to be swayed by all sorts of outside influence? I should very soon feel the consequences of it, I can tell you! And besides, there is one thing that makes it quite impossible for me to have Krogstad in the Bank as long as I am manager.

Nora: Whatever is that?

Helmer: His moral failings I might perhaps have overlooked, if necessary—

Nora: Yes, you could—couldn't you?

Helmer: And I hear he is a good worker, too. But I knew him when we were boys. It was one of those rash friendships that so often prove an incubus in afterlife. I may as well tell you plainly, we were once on very intimate terms with one another. But this tactless fellow lays no restraint on himself when other people are present. On the contrary, he thinks it gives him the right to adopt a familiar tone with me, and every minute it is "I say, Helmer, old fellow!" and that sort of thing. I assure you it is extremely painful for me. He would make my position in the Bank intolerable.


Which statements best describe the conflict? Select two options.

Helmer is controlling and does not want to be seen as one who lets his wife sway or control him.

Krogstad controls Helmer, and he does not want people to know about his past with Helmer.

Helmer does not like the way Krogstad tries to be his equal, and he wants to fire him from the bank.

Nora controls Helmer, and thinks that Krogstad is not as bad as Helmer believes he is.

Krogstad controls Nora, thinks that Nora is irresponsible, and wants to hide his past with Helmer.

Answer 1

The two statements that best describe the conflict are first number one.Helmer is controlling. Because of these implied rules society creates, he cannot let anyone see that a woman, his wife in this case, has any influence in his overall decisions. Helmer is glad that he is the authoritative husband, he is proud abot his position in the bank, too.The other is number three.Helmer does not like the way Krogstad behaves ...."he has no restraint on himself..."This tactless fellow..".." that sort of thing s extremely painful for me.."He is conntradictory and it appears he wants to be protective for his children.However, he seems to take advantage of his position to hurt people, specially Nora.