Ibsen: Theme Flashcards
What is the main theme of “A doll’s house” and “Hedda Gabler”?
Duty versus Self interest
Introduction
+ titles and author
+ detailed reference to question: introduce and explain the theme of duty vs self interest
+ explain how duty vs self interest is presented in both plays
+ introduction of naturalism
+ impact of naturalism
Paragraphs
1 - exposition
2 - rising action
3 - climax/denouement
4 - ADH alternative ending
Paragraph 1 topic
Both Nora and Hedda prioritise their duty as housewives over their own feelings and aspirations. In doing so, they abide to gender stereotypes and societal norms.
Paragraph 1 quotes
+ “Is that my squirrel rustling?” “Yes!”
+ “You know I could never act against your wishes”
+ “Nora: (goes over towards the stove) Very well, Torvold. As you say.”
+ “Love? Don’t be funny…I don’t intend to be unfaithful to him”
+ “A scandal. The thing you’re so frightened of. You’ll have to appear in court alongside Mademoiselle Danielle.”
Paragraph 2 topic
Both characters begin to priorise their own feelings and attempt to gain the foundations of freedom. This is characterised by sexual allusions - conflict.
Paragraph 2 quotes
+ “Can you neglect your most sacred duties…I have another duty which is equally sacred…my duty towards myself”
+ “(flicks him on the ear with the stockings)”
+ “Ah well,I still have one thing left to amuse myself with…My pistole, George darling.”
+ “Yes, I often longed for a third person”
Paragraph 3 topic
Characters commit their final acts of self-interest, gaining the freedom they desire through polarising methods
Paragraph 3 quotes
+ “I must try to satisfy myself. Which is right, society or I”
+ “I must stand on my own feet if I am to find out the truth about myself and about life. So I can’t go on living here any longer.”
+ “She goes out through the hall…The street door is slammed shut downstairs”
+ “Not free. Still not free! (Rises passionately)
+ “Tesman: she’s shot herself! Shot herself in the head! Fancy that! Brack! But, good God! People don’t do such things.”
Paragraph 4 topic
ADH alternative ending in which Torvold marches Nora in front of her children and forces her to stay. She prioritises duty in this ending. Defies autonomy and structure of play and is largely unsatisfying.
Paragraph 4 quote
+ “Though it is a sin against myself, I cannot leave them!”
