A Doll’s House Summary

Act One: A Deceptive Home

The play opens with Nora Helmer returning home, laden with Christmas purchases. Her husband, Torvald, playfully chastises her spending, calling her his “little skylark” and “squirrel.” This lighthearted exchange immediately establishes their seemingly idyllic, yet somewhat condescending, relationship.

We learn that Torvald has recently been promoted to bank manager, promising an end to their financial worries. Nora, however, secretly carries a significant burden. Years prior, she forged her dying father’s signature to secure a loan, saving Torvald’s life.

This secret loan, obtained from the unscrupulous Krogstad, forms the central conflict. Krogstad appears, revealing his precarious position at Torvald’s bank. He threatens to expose Nora’s forgery if she cannot secure his employment.

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Act Two: Unravelling the Threads

Nora’s Growing Desperation

Nora’s anxiety intensifies as Christmas approaches. She tries, unsuccessfully, to persuade Torvald to keep Krogstad. Torvald, obsessed with reputation, dismisses Krogstad, further endangering Nora’s secret.

Dr Rank, a family friend, confesses his love for Nora. This confession adds another layer of complexity to Nora’s already strained emotional state. She finds herself isolated and increasingly desperate.

Krogstad’s Ultimatum

Krogstad sends a letter to Torvald, revealing Nora’s forgery. Nora desperately tries to prevent Torvald from reading it. She engages him in a frantic tarantella dance, hoping to distract him.

The arrival of Mrs Linde, Nora’s old friend, offers a brief glimmer of hope. Mrs Linde, now aware of Nora’s secret, attempts to intercede with Krogstad. However, Krogstad insists that Torvald must learn the truth.

Act Three: The Truth Revealed

The Confrontation

Torvald finally reads Krogstad’s letter. His reaction is one of fury and self-preservation, not concern for Nora. He calls her a “miserable creature” and forbids her from raising their children.

A second letter arrives from Krogstad, returning the forged bond. Krogstad, influenced by Mrs Linde, has a change of heart. Torvald’s relief is immediate and overwhelming.

Nora’s Epiphany

Torvald attempts to resume their normal life, but Nora has undergone a profound transformation. She realises their marriage is a facade. She sees Torvald’s true, selfish nature.

Nora explains that she has been treated like a doll, first by her father and then by Torvald. She declares her need to understand herself and the world. This is a pivotal moment of self-discovery.

The Door Slams Shut

Nora makes the momentous decision to leave Torvald and her children. Despite Torvald’s pleas, she explains her need for independence. She seeks her own identity outside of her roles as wife and mother.

The play concludes with the sound of a door slamming shut. This iconic ending symbolises Nora’s departure and her rejection of societal expectations. It leaves the audience to ponder her uncertain future.

Related Pages

• A Doll’s House Study Guide
• Themes in A Doll’s House
• Key Moments in A Doll’s House
• Key Quotes in A Doll’s House