Themes
In Ibsen's 'A doll's house' many themes are touched on in a way that creates a compelling storyline and an intricate text that makes for an exciting and analytical read. The themes of the play makes it the story it is and without the depth that Ibsen goes into we would not have the story that we do.
Wealth and Money
The theme of wealth and money is rife within the play. We first see this in the play at the opening description of the Helmer's living room
-'A room furnished comfortably and tastefully, but not extravagantly' This quote gives us an indication of the amount of wealth the family has and sets up the idea later on of social status.
​
Another example that shows the theme of money and specifically Nora's obsession with it is in Act 1.
- Helmer: ''Come, come, my little skylark must not droop her wings. What is this! Is my little squirrel out of temper? (Taking out his purse.) Nora, what do you think I have got here?''
Nora: ''(turning around quickly). Money!'' This extract is perfect in showing Nora's reliance on money and her obsession. It cleverly plays into the greater ideas of the play, and is a key concept throughout.
Women's place in society and the home
This theme is one of the main concepts within the play. Nora is expected to stay home and take care of the children. she is not expected to be or say anything that contradicts her husband and if she does she is undermined.
-Helmer: 'Nora, Nora, a woman thou art ' This sentence shows how Helmer views his wife and how he perceives her as nothing more than an instrument in the home used to orchestrate the home and family life.
Subjugation of women through marriage
Another key theme in 'A doll's house' is the expectation that Nora bows at Torvald's feet and becomes submissive once they have married. In act 3 we see how Torvald has an expectation that Nora be submissive and comply with him.
-' Nora: 'Leave now, Torvald! You will leave me. I don't want this'
' Helmer: 'What are you saying? I think you're playing joker-bird with me now, my little Nora'
​
This shows that he does not listen to Noras wants and views her only as an object and not an individual. He believes it is his divine right to Nora, and that she cannot say no, because that defies his authority as a husband and a man.