Written by:
Last updated:
“A Doll's House” is a great book to read because of its short length and fast-moving storyline. (News 18)
Although the book caused controversy and scandal when it was first published, it has had a profound impact on feminist ideology and discussions of gender equality and autonomy
The future belongs to Generation Z, and their voices need to be heard. Through the Teen Talk platform, News18 is proud to amplify the perspectives of young writers on topics at the intersection of culture, politics, society and technology.
Henrik Ibsen's “A Doll's House” was written in the 19th century during the Victorian Era. This is a story about heterosexual marriage and a critique of traditional gender norms. Now considered classic feminist literature, it highlights the repressive expectations placed on women, requiring them to play a submissive role in marriage while men take the dominant role. The play's themes have stood the test of time and pioneered the values of freedom and personal expression.
The show revolves around a seemingly perfect family. Nora is the ideal housewife – obedient, innocent, and always well-dressed. Torvald is also ostensibly a loving husband who enjoys calling his wife nicknames and teasing her about her frivolity with money. But, as the story progresses, we see through the illusion of their happy marriage and their appearance.
Nora's darkest secret is that when Torvald became ill, she lied and forged her father's signature to borrow money. As the secret slowly emerges, Nora realizes who she is and what she really wants in life.
One thing Ibsen used to perfection was complex characterization. Although Nora starts out childish and submissive, she grows into a strong, confident woman. I think this shift is not only profound for most women, but also inspiring. Her husband, Torvald, is the epitome of a patriarchal, controlling, arrogant man. He treats Nora more like a possession than an equal, underscoring the play's critique of gender dynamics.
“To be a woman is to perform” This sentence perfectly sums up the theme of “A Doll's House”. Nora continues to play the socially recognized role of a good wife and mother. Her rejection of this life ultimately serves as an important reminder that women have the power to make their own decisions.
This is becoming increasingly important due to the new “traditional wife” trend, in which female creators like Naira Smith are all dolled up and wearing heavy makeup while doing Take care of the children while eating. This tendency to promote traditional housework and gender roles parallels Nora's life as a housewife in the 1800s. Reading a book like A Doll's House will help one think about how fulfilling and authentic such a life can be, as it supports personal growth and self-actualization beyond society's prescribed roles.
Although it caused controversy and scandal upon its initial release, it has had a profound impact on feminist ideology and discussions of gender equality and autonomy. Nora’s journey is a stunning representation of the human, universal experience of finding yourself.
A Doll's House will continue to resonate and be relevant for decades to come and is a great book to read due to its short length and fast-moving storyline. As well as being great for fans of feminist literature, it's also ideal for anyone trying to read drama. Unlike other old plays, Ibsen's writing is both simple and engaging. I recommend this not just to women, but to any young person who is still figuring out who they are. Additionally, I urge men to read this book to better understand power dynamics and gender roles in relationships.
Rishika Kumar is a class 11 student of Dhirubhai Ambani International School. She is an avid reader of books of all genres and has a passion for writing.
Stay up to date on the latest unrest in Bangladesh with our live blog.
