Question

HEDDA: [Holds out her hand.] Good morning, dear Miss Tesman! So early a call! That is kind of you.

MISS TESMAN: [With some embarrassment.] Well—has the bride slept well in her new home?

HEDDA: Oh yes, thanks. Passably.

TESMAN: [Laughing.] Passably! Come, that's good, Hedda! You were sleeping like a stone when I got up.

HEDDA: Fortunately. Of course one has always to accustom one's self to new surroundings, Miss Tesman—little by little. [Looking towards the left.] Oh, there the servant has gone and opened the veranda door, and let in a whole flood of sunshine. Hedda Gabler; act 1, pp. 19-20

These are the first few lines that Hedda speaks in the play. What do you learn about Hedda from her interaction with Miss Tesman? Your answer should be at least 250 words.

Answer 1

The first thing that we learn about Hedda in this excerpt is that she is difficult to please. It is clear that she slept well and that she had a good night in the house. However, she downplays this, and acts as if she had not. Her speech indicates that she might be entitled or arrogant, and that she expects fancy or luxurious things for herself. It is also likely that Hedda has grown up privileged, and that this is why she is spoiled. Finally, she slept for far longer than Miss Tessman, but still believes it is too early for her to wake up, which might indicate she is a lazy person.