Final answer:
In Henrik Ibsen's play Hedda Gabler, Hedda is more bound by convention compared to Thea, who is able to break free and pursue her own desires.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Henrik Ibsen's play Hedda Gabler, both Hedda and Thea are bound by convention to some extent, but Hedda is more restricted by societal expectations and is unable to break free completely. Hedda is married to Tesman, a man with whom she feels trapped and unsatisfied. She tries to manipulate and control others to assert her power, but ultimately her actions only lead to her own downfall.
On the other hand, Thea is shown as a more independent and free-spirited character. She breaks free from societal conventions by leaving her husband and pursuing her own artistic career. Thea's decision to leave her marriage and her willingness to follow her own passion show that she is able to break free from convention more than Hedda.
One example of Hedda being bound by convention is her desire for a socially prestigious life. She is disappointed with her marriage to Tesman and becomes resentful of their middle-class lifestyle. Hedda feels trapped within the expectations of her role as a wife in society and longs for a more luxurious and exciting life.
In contrast, Thea is not as concerned with societal expectations. She is driven by her passion for art and is willing to take risks and make unconventional choices to pursue her dreams. Thea's decision to leave her marriage and dedicate herself to her art shows her ability to break free from convention.
In conclusion, while both Hedda and Thea are bound to some extent by convention, Hedda is more restricted by societal expectations while Thea is able to break free and pursue her own desires. This is evident in their choices and actions throughout the play.