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Doll's House


             Henrick Ibsen's play "A Doll's House" revolutionized modern drama with the slamming of the door that was heard around the world. Ibsen's use of realism made him the father of modern drama. Because of this technique, he was also surrounded by controversy. Many people opposed his views, such as the Anti Ibsen League, and accused him of having an immoral effect on audiences. In "A Doll's House," Ibsen uses a dysfunctional and oppressive marriage to argue against injustice and for individual rights (Ibsen 1-4). .
             Ibsen combines symbolism and realistic style to describe Nora to create a believable plot. Ibsen uses two types of animal imagery to develop Nora's character: birds and squirrels. Each pet name seems to apply to the current situation. Torvald refers to Nora as a lark when she is happy and carefree, a squirrel when she is being sneaky; when she is afraid, she has "frightened dove eyes." A lark symbolizes being happy and carefree, a dove stands for peace, and a squirrel rummages around and hides objects. While Nora hides objects such as macaroons, she also hides her emotions. However, Torvald sees her as cheerful and untroubled; and she plays the part well ("Animal" 1-2). Along with symbolism, Ibsen uses realism to build character background (Ibsen 3). Ibsen employs plots that involve real situations. He uses natural dialogue without manipulating the plot for a happy ending for realistic drama is believable (Kashdan 568). With the use of descriptive imagery and realistic circumstances, Ibsen changed modern drama.
             Ibsen also uses realism to depict the troubles within Nora and Torvald's marriage. Nora and Torvald are both confused by the reality of their problems. Nora makes an enormous sacrifice to save Torvald's life, but he is so confident in his role as the husband that he does not even notice her secret struggles. Nora is sure that when Torvald learns of her sacrifice, he will risk his honor to become her savior.


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