A Doll's House

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• The word “courage” is repeated often throughout this scene. Where else has it occurred? Why is Ibsen repeating this word? 

• In what ways does Krogstad seem to feel trapped by Helmer and Nora? Is he truly a victim here?

• The motif of letters occurs throughout the play. Letters are also a hallmark of the “well-made play.” How does the letter in this scene help to move the plot forward? What does it symbolize? (p. 45)

• What does Christine offer to do to assist Nora? What does the scene between them reveal about the power dynamics between men and women in the play? In Victorian society

• What does Nora do to distract Helmer from the letter box? How does this dance and the rolls that Helmer, Nora, and Rank each play in the dance help to further characterize each of them?

• What does the tarantella serve as a symbol of? How does Ibsen use this symbol to develop the theme of appearances? What does the dance seem to foreshadow?

• What do Helmer’s actions during the dance reinforce about his character?

• What is this “wonderful thing” that Nora is predicting will happen? What hints does Ibsen give us?