A Doll’s House: Study Questions

1. Describe Mrs. Linde’s character. What is her role in the play?
2. Define dramatic irony. Give two examples of irony from the play and explain why they are ironic.
3. Why is the play titled A Doll’s House?
4. What is the social commentary that Ibsen gives through this play?
5. Define foil. Give several examples. Choose one to explain.
6. What is the symbolism of the tarantella?
7. Reflect on the significance of Krogstad’s second letter.
8. Reflect on Ibsen’s contrast between appearance and reality in the play.
9. What does Nora’s decision at the end of the play suggest about her character?
10. How does Krogstad change by the end of the play? What does Ibsen suggest about morality through this transformation?
11. Reflect on the final line of the play: is there any hope?
12. Is this a cynical, depressing play, or does Ibsen have something positive to suggest about society? Explain.
13. Analyze the concept of “the wonderful thing” in this play.
14. List several themes from the play and explain them.
15. Analyze Torvald’s view of marriage.
16. What are Torvald’s greatest strengths? Weaknesses?
17. Did Nora contribute to her childlike position in her marriage? If so, how should she have behaved differently?
18. Explain why you agree or disagree with Nora’s decision at the end of the play.
19. Describe Dr. Rank's character. What is his role in the play?