A Doll’s House is 1879 play by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen. It is said that the play it is sharply critical of 19th century marriage norms, and I do agree, but I think it is more than just a critique, it is a warning which is carried across time and space limits which are physical factors in boundaries of cultural differences. We should not, however, forget, A Doll’s House is about disintegration of relationships. Family as institution fails, but the question remaining is “Why”? And perhaps we should seek the answer in ourselves. Our nature, our wants and needs, as well as circumstances of the “decay” itself should be accounted for. Maybe the issue’s beginnings lie deeper in the past. Those indeed are profound questions. The gravity of the matter, which even in cases absurd, should never be taken lightly, it must be considered with all the respect it deserves and attention required. Not to mention, the play as a theatrical performance, and it’s point are still valid. Even in our times of reason, we are considered so educated and civil, yet I’d say refinement of knowledge is not the same as refinement of morality in culture. In practice integration of ethics in everyday lives, while preserving the balance of order and freedom to act, is quite complicated. With our society being so advanced and intelligent, we sometimes do forget that we’re still just people with all the flaws ensuing. In response to Dylan’s comment I can only say that although I generally agree with his view, I find that there are certain differences in our respective positions regarding the play. I too, found it to be a refreshing experience, although I the play’s enactment itself rather of “polyhedral angle” in its nature. And since I saw the play before I can say that, for example, the character which was cut from this particular production, although not crucial to the play’s development and the message delivery, in my belief, the doctor, would’ve been an asset, yet I do understand the financial difficulties the department is experiencing. Also, I would like to emphasize how the air, Nora’s actions make one feel about what kind of person she represents, is very changed. The perspective on it is different at the beginning from that of the one in mind of an audience, created by the events and actions at the end of the play.
This play for the lack of better words, has raised a lot of commotion and not for nothing, after all as I say, “the times change and we are the change in them”… The response it procured in me is very strong, for my emotions regarding the happenings of the play, my feelings toward the play, as those affect my standing on the issue, are conflicting. I can only say that I am truly intrigued, which is very important in theatre, or I would think so. I will definitely recommend this play to anyone interested in the issues presented by it.