A variety of forces exerts influence on the characters in a given literary selection. The actions, reactions, and interactions of these characters, in turn, influence the direction of the plot, the theme, and the other characters as well. These forces may originate from a character's past or present actions. Several characters in A Doll's House are affected by choices they have made in their past. Ibsen develops this concept by using Nora Helmer, Dr. Rank, and Nils Krogstad as examples by the choices they have and still have to make. The choices made by each character effects the choices of others, and the effects the choices have on the character themselves.
Nora, Torvald Helmers wife, is a very interesting character, she is constantly doing what ever she is told by Torvald just so that he does not become offended. Nora, considers herself fortunate. Indeed, she worships her husband, believes in him implicitly, and is sure that if ever her safety should be menaced, Torvald, her idol, her god, would perform the miracle. Because of this Nora forges her own fathers signature so that she can get a loan to take her beloved Torvald to Italy so that he will recover from her illness. Thus Nils Krogstad is effected because he is the person that got Nora the loan. If it where to go public Nils would also be seen as an accomplice. Nora, in her desparation, asks Dr. Rank, a dear friend to her and her husband, to lend her some money. She does not go through with asking him in the end because he tells her that he loves her and she is baffled. Thus in trying to help her husband Nora has gotten herself into some very odd situations.