Question

Write a short note on why the Nora-Torvald relationship is an unbalanced one, with control in the hands of Torvald.

Answer 1

1. Torvald and Nora are in a conventional husband-wife relationship. Torvald believes he is the moral pillar, his own standing more important than his wife and her needs.
2. Torvald views Nora as immature and incapable, using diminutive terms like "doll," "skylark," and "spendthrift" to describe her. He sees himself as a steady, rational professional, reinforcing a sense of superiority.
3. Though Torvald is the dominating one, commanding and expecting Nora to fit his view of a woman and a wife, he is the weaker character. Nora is the stronger and more practical one.
4. Nora takes a risk and sacrifices hours of work to restore Torvald to health, but Torvald does not appreciate or value the effort.
5. She expects him to understand, especially after his declarations of wanting to be her saviour but is disillusioned.
6. The relationship is marked by deception macaroons, secrets of each other as well as of the self.
7. The relationship does not last once the truth is out. Nora walks out and Torvald who wants to salvage the relationship is left alone.