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Doll's House


She believes that his love for her is so strong a "miracle" will occur when he realizes the torment she has endured for his sake. Nora's love for Torvald is deep and without conditions; unfortunately, his is shallow. Nora's life changes drastically once she suddenly realizes that Torvald's great love for her is meaningless when he fears his reputation is at stake. When Torvald is no longer in fear for his reputation, he wants Nora to become his "little lark" again; but it is too late. Nora's eyes are opened; she can no longer live a lie. He is but a stranger to her, and she cannot live with a stranger. Nora leaves, not out of spite, but with the realization that they have never truly known each other. Her miracle never occurs. He has never loved her in the way that she has envisioned (Clurman 152-153). .
             The miracle never occurs because Torvald, who has been influenced by society as the bread winner, feels humiliated when he learns of Nora's deception (Sprinchorn 122). Torvald is "rigidly honest and of high moral ideals" (Goldman 1). Torvald is meant to represent the general society of his day. This society has put him in an inferior position. Torvald, who symbolizes authority and male dominance, expects his wife to obey his rules. In fact, his pet names refer to Nora as "his ," reflecting his view of her as a possession and not as his equal. Nora is his property, a doll or plaything, not his partner in marriage (Kashdan 569-570). When he feels threatened by society, Torvald shows his true colors by putting his reputation before his wife (Clurman 153).
             However, Nora believes that love outweighs social stature, legal, and moral laws. She is led to believe that her criminal behavior will poison the minds of her children, and she ultimately doubts her ability as a mother. Nora does not know her own strength until she is forced to come to the realization that her life has been a lie (Goldman 1-2).


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