Dishonesty in A Doll's House Essay

In A Doll House, Henrik Ibsen illustrates issues with deceitfulness and dishonesty. Nora manipulates and lies to her husband throughout their marriage. She always has something to hide from him. Nora ultimately learns from her mistakes and discovers her true self. Through her actions, interactions, and interactions with other characters Nora is characterized as manipulative and deceiving, yet a true friend.

First, Ibsen reveals Nora as manipulative towards Torvald. She continually begs him for more money for the Christmas holiday. Torvald states, payday isnt till the end of the quarter, and Nora replies, That does matter. We can always borrow, implying that they should borrow money for Christmas (Ibsen 1089). Additionally, when Torvald asks Nora what she wants for Christmas; she pretends that she does not want anything for herself. Then, he asks her again and again and she quickly says, Some money, Torvald. Just as much as you think you can spare. Then Ill buy myself something one of these days (1090). She tries to convince Torvald into giving her more money for Christmas. Later, Nora is trying to keep Torvald from seeing the letter that Krogstad left in the mail box for him. When Torvald goes to see if there is any mail, Nora says, No, no! Dont Torvald! (1129). She goes on, I wont be able to dance tomorrow if I dont get to practice with you (1129). She persuades her husband to practice with her so he will not check the letter box. Nora deliberately manipulates her husband for money and her own well-being.

Nora also exposes a very devious side of herself. For instance, Torvald notices she is looking a little-sly and then he asks her if she has eaten any macaroons (Ibsen 1091). Nora responds, No, really, Torvald, but she is really hiding the macaroons from him (1091). Later, she confesses a secret to Mrs. Linde of borrowing money from someone. Mrs. Linde asks Nora, And youve never told your husband? (1098). Nora replies, Of course not! (1098). Her snappy comeback flaunts her lack of honesty and trust. Afterwards, Krogstad comes to the house and accuses Nora of forging her fathers signature on the papers for the loan that he has given her. When he confronts her about this, she says, I wrote Daddys name, confirming her act of forgery to Krogstad (1108). Nora lies and deceives to get what she wants, but never once considers the consequences of her actions.

Nora may seem sneaky and untrustworthy, however, she helps her friend and saves her husbands life through these immoral actions. Her reaction to her friend Mrs. Linde is extremely helpful. Mrs. Linde is looking for a job and wants to know if Torvald will give her one. Nora says, Ill think of something nice to tell him, something hell like. Oh I so much want to help you, insinuating she will gladly help her friend (1096). Nora goes to Torvald to ask him if her friend can have a position at his bank. Nora states admirable opinions about Mrs. Linde to her husband. Nora asks, How bout it, Torvald? Could you do something for Kristine? For my sake. Please? (1103). Torvald responds, Quit possibly (1103). Nora keeps her word and convinces her husband to help Mrs. Linde. Furthermore, Nora also saves her husbands life when she finds out that he is fatally ill. She is told the only thing that can save him is a trip to the south. When Nora tells Mrs. Linde she took a loan without Torvalds consent, Mrs. Linde thinks it is foolish. Nora says, Is it foolish to save your husbands life? (1098). Even though she does this behind his back she thinks unselfishly, as a true friend or true love does.

Nora shows deceitfulness and dishonesty is not the answer in A Doll House. She does certain things with no regard and takes advantage of her husband. Finally, Nora realizes this lifestyle is not for her and leaves it and everyone else behind. Through her learning experiences Nora seems shady and deceptive at times, however, she does care for her loved ones very much.