Question

Select all the correct answers.

Which themes are reflected in this excerpt from act 1 of Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House?

NORA (Meditatively, and with a half smile): Yes—someday, perhaps, after many years, when I am no longer as nice-looking as I am now. Don't laugh at me! I mean, of course, when Torvald is no longer as devoted to me as he is now; when my dancing and dressing-up and reciting have palled on him; then it may be a good thing to have something in reserve—(Breaking off) What nonsense! That time will never come. Now, what do you think of my great secret, Christine? Do you still think I am of no use? I can tell you, too, that this affair has caused me a lot of worry. It has been by no means easy for me to meet my engagements punctually. I may tell you that there is something that is called, in business, quarterly interest, and another thing called payment in installments, and it is always so dreadfully difficult to manage them. I have had to save a little here and there, where I could, you understand. I have not been able to put aside much from my housekeeping money, for Torvald must have a good table. I couldn't let my children be shabbily dressed; I have felt obliged to use up all he gave me for them, the sweet little darlings!

importance of money
appearance versus reality
control and obedience
deceit
aesthetic beauty
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Answer 1

The theme which is reflected in the above excerpt from Act 1 of Henrik Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House” is:

importance of money

appearance versus reality

In the first act of “A Doll's House,” Henry Ibsen introduces the main characters of the play and gives a gist of their attitude towards things. Nora has been presented as a housewife who wants to give all the pleasures to her family and herself but is unable to do so because of the lack of money. She feels very excited to buy presents for her children and for the family during Christmas. Though they lack money, still she buys things through credit. Her husband Torvald asks her not to spend too much and calls her a spendthrift. While conversing to her friend Christine, Nora says that after a few years she would not be as beautiful as she is now and she fears that her husband would leave her. she talks about the importance of money in any persons' life. she says that she needs to look after all the requirement of the family and on another side has to think about the savings too.

Answer 2

The themes reflected are: importance of money, appeareance versus reality and deceit.

I may tell you that there is something that is called, in business, quarterly interest, and another thing called payment in installments, and it is always so dreadfully difficult to manage them (importance of money).

I couldn't let my children be shabbily dressed (appeareance vs reality).

I can tell you, too, that this affair has caused me a lot of worry (deceit).