Theme Of Patriarchy In A Doll's House

An audience of the nineteenth century production of ‘A Dolls House’ would hold strong connections to the patriarchy. Male dominance and the suppression of the female were regarded as ‘natural’ to an audience in this time. Ibsen strongly addresses these beliefs from the commencement of Act One. Progressively challenging the opinions of the audience as the play develops. The characters Nora and Torvald, on the surface of their relationship, address the commonplace gender roles assumed by male and female during the 19th century. Torvald’s constant patronizing remarks when addressing his wife asserts his male dominance. To Torvald, Nora is nothing but his “little squirrel” or “skylark” whose thoughts and words are nonsensical and typical to any