A Doll's Houseexplores the complex dynamics of marriage, gender... Show more
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26 Dec 2025
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A Doll's House Gender Roles & Marriage Quotes
Rosie Cooke
@rosiecooke_lxkq
Act 3: Nora's Transformation and the Breakdown of the Doll's House
In the final act of A Doll's House, we witness Nora's complete transformation and the ultimate breakdown of her marriage to Torvald. This act serves as a powerful critique of traditional gender roles and the institution of marriage in 19th-century society.
Quote: "I have been your doll-wife, just as at home I was papa's doll-child."
This iconic line encapsulates the theme of gender inequality in A Doll's House. Nora finally recognizes and articulates how she has been treated as a plaything by both her father and her husband, never allowed to develop her own identity or make her own decisions.
The revelation of Nora's secret and Torvald's reaction serve as the catalyst for her awakening. His initial anger and subsequent attempt to forgive her reveal the deep-seated power imbalance in their relationship.
Highlight: Nora's decision to leave her family is a radical act of self-discovery and a rejection of societal norms.
Ibsen challenges the audience to consider whether love and equality are possible within the confines of traditional marriage. The contrast between Nora and Torvald's failing relationship and the potential for a more equal partnership between Mrs. Linde and Krogstad further emphasizes this point.
Example: Mrs. Linde and Krogstad are described as "two shipwrecked souls," suggesting that a truly equal marriage might only be possible for those who have nothing left to lose.
The play also touches on the theme of motherhood and women's roles in society. Nora's decision to leave her children is particularly shocking to 19th-century audiences, challenging the notion that a woman's primary purpose is to be a wife and mother.
Quote: "I believe that before all else I am a reasonable human being, just as you are—or, at all events, that I must try and become one."
This powerful statement emphasizes Nora's determination to discover her own identity and potential outside of her roles as wife and mother. It serves as a rallying cry for women's rights and individual autonomy.
The impact of marriage on women is a central theme in A Doll's House, with Ibsen arguing that the institution as it existed in 19th-century society was fundamentally flawed and oppressive to women.
Definition: Doll's House - A metaphor for the confining and artificial nature of traditional marriage and gender roles.
As the play concludes, we are left with a sense of both hope and uncertainty. Nora's future is unknown, but she has taken the first step towards true self-discovery and independence.
Act 2: Nora's Awakening and the Tarantella
In Act 2 of A Doll's House, we witness Nora's growing awareness of her role as a "doll-wife" and the constraints of her marriage. The Tarantella dance becomes a powerful symbol of Nora's inner turmoil and desire for freedom.
Quote: "When Torvald no longer loves me.... when it no longer amuses him to watch me dance..."
This quote reveals Nora's fear that her worth is tied solely to her ability to entertain her husband. The theme of marriage in A Doll's House is further explored as Nora begins to question the nature of her relationship with Torvald.
Highlight: The Tarantella dance represents Torvald's control over Nora, using her beauty and sexuality for his own entertainment.
Nora's costume for the dance is the first sign of her impending transformation. As she practices, we see her struggling with the conflicting desires to please Torvald and to assert her own identity.
Example: Torvald's use of animal names and possessive language ("mine, mine, mine") creates a suffocating environment for Nora, emphasizing the power imbalance in their marriage.
The play also touches on the societal expectations placed on men, as seen in Torvald's obsession with his reputation and inability to show weakness. This demonstrates how gender roles in A Doll's House trap both men and women in rigid, unfulfilling roles.
Quote: "It's incredible what an expensive pet she is for a man to keep."
This quote highlights the financial burden placed on men in traditional marriages, while also objectifying women as possessions to be maintained.
As Act 2 progresses, we see Nora's growing disillusionment with her marriage and her role as a wife. She begins to question whether love is even possible within such a restrictive institution.
Vocabulary: Tarantella - A rapid whirling dance originating in southern Italy, traditionally believed to be a remedy for tarantula bites.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
A Doll's House Gender Roles & Marriage Quotes
Rosie Cooke
@rosiecooke_lxkq
A Doll's House explores the complex dynamics of marriage, gender roles, and societal expectations in 19th-century Norway. The play critiques the oppressive nature of traditional gender roles and the institution of marriage, highlighting the sacrifices and limitations imposed on women.... Show more
Act 3: Nora's Transformation and the Breakdown of the Doll's House
In the final act of A Doll's House, we witness Nora's complete transformation and the ultimate breakdown of her marriage to Torvald. This act serves as a powerful critique of traditional gender roles and the institution of marriage in 19th-century society.
Quote: "I have been your doll-wife, just as at home I was papa's doll-child."
This iconic line encapsulates the theme of gender inequality in A Doll's House. Nora finally recognizes and articulates how she has been treated as a plaything by both her father and her husband, never allowed to develop her own identity or make her own decisions.
The revelation of Nora's secret and Torvald's reaction serve as the catalyst for her awakening. His initial anger and subsequent attempt to forgive her reveal the deep-seated power imbalance in their relationship.
Highlight: Nora's decision to leave her family is a radical act of self-discovery and a rejection of societal norms.
Ibsen challenges the audience to consider whether love and equality are possible within the confines of traditional marriage. The contrast between Nora and Torvald's failing relationship and the potential for a more equal partnership between Mrs. Linde and Krogstad further emphasizes this point.
Example: Mrs. Linde and Krogstad are described as "two shipwrecked souls," suggesting that a truly equal marriage might only be possible for those who have nothing left to lose.
The play also touches on the theme of motherhood and women's roles in society. Nora's decision to leave her children is particularly shocking to 19th-century audiences, challenging the notion that a woman's primary purpose is to be a wife and mother.
Quote: "I believe that before all else I am a reasonable human being, just as you are—or, at all events, that I must try and become one."
This powerful statement emphasizes Nora's determination to discover her own identity and potential outside of her roles as wife and mother. It serves as a rallying cry for women's rights and individual autonomy.
The impact of marriage on women is a central theme in A Doll's House, with Ibsen arguing that the institution as it existed in 19th-century society was fundamentally flawed and oppressive to women.
Definition: Doll's House - A metaphor for the confining and artificial nature of traditional marriage and gender roles.
As the play concludes, we are left with a sense of both hope and uncertainty. Nora's future is unknown, but she has taken the first step towards true self-discovery and independence.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Act 2: Nora's Awakening and the Tarantella
In Act 2 of A Doll's House, we witness Nora's growing awareness of her role as a "doll-wife" and the constraints of her marriage. The Tarantella dance becomes a powerful symbol of Nora's inner turmoil and desire for freedom.
Quote: "When Torvald no longer loves me.... when it no longer amuses him to watch me dance..."
This quote reveals Nora's fear that her worth is tied solely to her ability to entertain her husband. The theme of marriage in A Doll's House is further explored as Nora begins to question the nature of her relationship with Torvald.
Highlight: The Tarantella dance represents Torvald's control over Nora, using her beauty and sexuality for his own entertainment.
Nora's costume for the dance is the first sign of her impending transformation. As she practices, we see her struggling with the conflicting desires to please Torvald and to assert her own identity.
Example: Torvald's use of animal names and possessive language ("mine, mine, mine") creates a suffocating environment for Nora, emphasizing the power imbalance in their marriage.
The play also touches on the societal expectations placed on men, as seen in Torvald's obsession with his reputation and inability to show weakness. This demonstrates how gender roles in A Doll's House trap both men and women in rigid, unfulfilling roles.
Quote: "It's incredible what an expensive pet she is for a man to keep."
This quote highlights the financial burden placed on men in traditional marriages, while also objectifying women as possessions to be maintained.
As Act 2 progresses, we see Nora's growing disillusionment with her marriage and her role as a wife. She begins to question whether love is even possible within such a restrictive institution.
Vocabulary: Tarantella - A rapid whirling dance originating in southern Italy, traditionally believed to be a remedy for tarantula bites.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Most popular content: The Yellow Wallpaper
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Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user