Final answer:
Option c is correct as it demonstrates how Nora hides her financial independence to appear flawless, revealing societal limits on women's roles. The excerpt from A Doll's House shows the conflict between societal expectations and a woman’s desire for autonomy and self-education, as Nora struggles with the prescribed behaviors of being a dutiful wife and mother.
Step-by-step explanation:
The excerpt from Henrik Ibsen's play, A Doll's House, highlights the theme that society places limits on the roles of women. This is evidenced through the interactions between Nora and her husband, Helmer, where societal expectations and limitations on women are clearly depicted. Option c is the correct answer: Nora is supposed to be flawless, so she hides her financial actions from her husband.
In the dialogue, it is clear that Nora feels constrained by the expectations of her as a woman in her society. Despite her intelligence and capability, she is expected to behave as a dutiful wife and mother, with her actions being policed by societal norms. She hides her financial independence, which she gains through her own efforts, due to the fear of societal backlash and her husband's disapproval, which further develops the theme that society imposes strict roles on women regarding their behavior and economic autonomy.
Furthermore, the conversation between Nora and Helmer reveals a conflict between the individual desires and growth of a woman and the rigid expectations imposed by society. The themes of financial independence, maternal responsibility, and self-education are brought to the forefront, showcasing Nora's struggle to defy the standards and embark on a journey of self-discovery, even if it means breaking away from her family. This embodies the societal limitations women face, as Nora's actions are deemed transgressive, and her aspiration to become an independent 'reasonable human being' is met with disbelief and condemnation by her husband.