A Doll's House - Acts II & III

Act II

The setting remains the same with subtle differences.  The reader can easily picture the house reminiscent of Christmas day and it seems that all the excitement has passed.

There is quite a bit of foreshadowing in the beginning of the act when Nora is speaking with the nurse.  It is also revealed that the nurse left her own child to raise Nora.  Nora believes that this was for the best.

Conflict arises again when Nora speaks to Helmer about Krogstad's position.  Torvald refuses to change his mind because of his wife.  His character is very dominant in the relationship.

Another conflict develops between Krogstad and Nora when he is served with his dismissal.  Krogstad is threatening and not allowing Nora to get out of the situation easily. 

Mrs. Linde serves as a good confidant for Nora to have.  Mrs. Linde is caring and wishes to help Nora with Krogstad. 

Act III

Again, the setting is very descriptive and easily to picture.  The reader knows that the party is going on upstairs as Mrs. Linde waits eagerly for Krogstad to arrive.

The tables seem to turn when it is revealed that Krogstad and Mrs. Linde used to be lovers.  Mrs. Linde had been in a loveless marriage and now it is obvious that her love was with Krogstad.  She had sacrificed her happiness to help her sick mother and two brothers.  Krogstad's character changes drastically and he releases Nora from the blackmailing.

However, Torvald also exposes his personality when he reads the initial letter from Krogstad.  Torvald is extremely concerned with reputations and is very selfish.  Torvald also says that he "ought to have foreseen it" (106) because of Nora's father's history.  He views Nora as his property and she had lied to him.  Once he discovers that Krogstad has returned the contract, it is like a switch is turned off.  Torvald is a little too quick to forgive Nora but she is already prepared to leave.

Nora's character developed extremely throughout the drama.  She went from a childish girl into a strong-willed, independent woman.  Nora handed her wedding ring back to Torvald and left with only what she came with.  Nora made great sacrifices for herself and her children because she felt that they would be better off raised by their nanny.