A Doll's House The Home Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Act.Line) Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a long monologue.

Quote #1

Stage Directions: SCENE—A room furnished comfortably and tastefully, but not extravagantly.

Why would Ibsen be so specific in describing the furnishings of the Helmers' home?

Read it in the Book: Act One

Quote #2

HELMER: "An atmosphere of lies infects and poisons the whole life of a home. Each breath the children take in such a house is full of the germs of evil." (1.469)

Torvald is unaware at this point that he lives in just such a home. Has it really hurt the children in any way?

Act One Summary

The Home

Read it in the Book: Act One

Quote #3

NORA: "Certainly Torvald does understand how to make a house dainty and attractive."
MRS. LINDE: "And so do you, it seems to me." (2.34-2.35)

So great is Torvald's domination that Nora gives him credit for even the stereotypically feminine role of homemaking.

Act Two Summary