How Does Nora's Attitude Change Throughout The Play

The unappetizing aspects of society Ibsen viewed during his time culminate in the character of Torvald. Seemingly possessing fine characteristics on the surface, he quickly reveals the superficial and nonauthentic aspects of his heart. While desiring honor, respect, and care, he fails to deliver any of these things to his wife. Although he appears to believe in universal values, such as morality and duty, his derogatory treatment towards Nora and lack of empathy contradict the words from his lips (105). As early as the first lines of the play, the viewer sees his child-like and stereotypical perception of Nora, instead of viewing her as an independent and respectable woman (46). Furthermore, he completely condemns his wife after discovering the hidden letter from Krogstad, instead of acknowledging even the slightest amount of gratitude or thankfulness for her …show more content…
Having been married for a lengthy amount of time, Nora tries to express how she wants to be treated, but Torvald ignores her. Despite this, she diligently works on paying off her loan and almost finishes doing so. Thus, she sacrifices hidden time and energy for the mutual benefit of their relationship. Near the end of the crisis with Krogstad, she hopes fervently that her husband will not react negatively, but his outburst suddenly leads to an awakening. After all the pitiful treatment given by her husband, his failure to recognize her portion of their relationship leads her to begin walking away immediately (107). Although leaving her children with a single parent can be questioned as wrong, the reader understands why she finally leaves Torvald at the end. Having had patience for perhaps longer than expected given the circumstances, Nora does not hesitate when she makes her fateful decision. Because of her actions, Nora proves she can clearly discern the right time to wait and to