The Tyrant in A Doll House

The controversial play A Doll House by Henrik Ibsen has received many critical reviews due to the social disintegration it highlights. Ibsen's play is a narrative about the marriage of a young couple that fails because they are unable to communicate and understand one another. Critics feast on the actions of the characters and the outcome of the play. What many critics like to discuss is Ibens's overall intentions in the production of the play and the focus on the character's personalities. The character of Torvald the husband, being a controlling and possessive man, is but a product of society from the time during which the play was written (Shaw 1). Torvald Helmer's character, which may seem to the simple mind to be that of an ideal husband, is quite the contrary if one takes a closer look. Most critics agree that Nora's actions were drastic, but few like to pay the due attention to what brought about her response.

Torvald's use of "my," "me," "mine," and "I" used throughout the play displays his position of control. In dealing with his wife like a child, by promoting her childish behaviors and binding her to demeaning rules and actions, Torvald displays his domineering attitude (Downs 147). After her secret is revealed and he regains composure he tries to pretend that everything is back to normal and feels that "he is generously returning her to her status as wife and mother" (Deer 4). After he patronizes her again, she tries to stand up for herself and he, authoritatively replies, "You're insane! You've no right! I forbid you"(1247).