Explain the stereotypical gender roles of the male breadwinner and the ideal Victorian housewife.

A Doll’s House has been described as a ‘social problem play.’ In other words, it is about a real and a burning social issue of the 19th century, when the play was written. In your essay, identify what this problem is and explain what Nora does as a possible solution to the problem.
In your essay, identify the antagonist or villain. Is there more than one? Who or what is the opposing force in the way of Nora’s personal growth and self-fulfillment?
What is the main cause(s) of failure in Helmer and Nora’s marriage? What would they need to do in order to repair their relationship?
Explain the stereotypical gender roles of the male breadwinner and the ideal Victorian housewife. In what ways do Helmer and Nora fit these stereotypical gender roles? In what ways do they defy these roles?
Discuss the theme of women’s morality in the play. How are women upheld as virtuous, angelic and self-sacrificing? Does this role help or hinder women?
Discuss the theme of appearance versus reality in the play. How do certain characters appear at the beginning of the play and how does your impression of them change by the end of the play?
What or who do you blame for Nora’s tragic downfall? To what extent do you think she is responsible for her own tragic outcome? Or do you see her as a victim of circumstance? Explain your interpretation.
What is the significance of all the bird references in the play? (Ex. Why does Torvald call Nora “skylark,” “songbird” or refer to her as a frightened dove”?). Is there a thematic significance to all this bird imagery?

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