A Doll’’s House

by

Henrik Ibsen

A Penn State Electronic Classics Series Publication

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 Henrik Ibsen

A Doll’s House A DOLL’S

by HOUSE
Henrik Ibsen ACT I
DRAMATIS PERSONAE (SCENE
SCENE.—A room furnished comfortably and tastefully,
SCENE
but not extravagantly. At the back, a door to the right leads to
Tor
orvvald H elmer
Helmer
elmer. the entrance-hall, another to the left leads to Helmer’s study.
Nora
Nora, his wife. Between the doors stands a piano. In the middle of the left-
Doctor Rank
Rank. hand wall is a door, and beyond it a window. Near the win-
Mrs. Linde
Linde. dow are a round table, arm-chairs and a small sofa. In the
Nils Krogstad
Krogstad. right-hand wall, at the farther end, another door; and on the
elmer’’s thr
Helmer ee yyoung
three oung children
children
en. same side, nearer the footlights, a stove, two easy chairs and a
Anne
Anne, their nurse. rocking-chair; between the stove and the door, a small table.
A Housemaid
Housemaid. Engravings on the walls; a cabinet with china and other small
AP or
Por ter
orter
ter. objects; a small book-case with well-bound books. The floors
are carpeted, and a fire burns in the stove. It is winter.
The action takes place in Helmer’s house. A bell rings in the hall; shortly afterwards the door is heard
to open. Enter NORA
NORA, humming a tune and in high spirits.
She is in outdoor dress and carries a number of parcels; these
she lays on the table to the right. She leaves the outer door
open after her, and through it is seen a POR PORTERTER who is

3
 A Doll’s House
carrying a Christmas Tree and a basket, which he gives to the Nora ora. Just now. (Puts the bag of macaroons into her pocket
MAID who has opened the door.) and wipes her mouth.) Come in here, Torvald, and see what I
have bought.
Nora
ora. Hide the Christmas Tree carefully, Helen. Be sure the
children do not see it until this evening, when it is dressed. Helmer
elmer. Don’t disturb me. (A little later, he opens the door
(To the POR TER
PORTER
TER, taking out her purse.) How much? and looks into the room, pen in hand.) Bought, did you say?
All these things? Has my little spendthrift been wasting money
Por ter
orter
ter. Sixpence. again?

Nora
ora. There is a shilling. No, keep the change. (The POR- Nora
ora. Yes but, Torvald, this year we really can let ourselves go
TER thanks her, and goes out. NORA shuts the door. She is a little. This is the first Christmas that we have not needed to
laughing to herself, as she takes off her hat and coat. She takes economise.
a packet of macaroons from her pocket and eats one or two;
then goes cautiously to her husband’s door and listens.) Yes, Helmer
elmer. Still, you know, we can’t spend money recklessly.
he is in. (Still humming, she goes to the table on the right.) Nora. Yes, Torvald, we may be a wee bit more reckless now,
mayn’t we? Just a tiny wee bit! You are going to have a big
Helmer (calls out from his room). Is that my little lark twit- salary and earn lots and lots of money.
tering out there?
Helmer
elmer. Yes, after the New Year; but then it will be a whole
Nora (busy opening some of the parcels). Yes, it is! quarter before the salary is due.

Helmer
elmer. Is it my little squirrel bustling about? Nora
ora. Pooh! we can borrow until then.

Nora
ora. Yes! Helmer
elmer. Nora! (Goes up to her and takes her playfully by the
ear.) The same little featherhead! Suppose, now, that I bor-
Helmer
elmer. When did my squirrel come home? rowed fifty pounds today, and you spent it all in the Christ-
mas week, and then on New Year’s Eve a slate fell on my head
4
 Henrik Ibsen
and killed me, and—Nora (putting her hands over his mouth). Nora (turning round quickly). Money!
Oh! don’t say such horrid things.
Helmer
elmer. There you are. (Gives her some money.) Do you
Helmer
elmer. Still, suppose that happened,—what then? think I don’t know what a lot is wanted for housekeeping at
Christmas-time?
Nora
ora. If that were to happen, I don’t suppose I should care
whether I owed money or not. Nora (counting). Ten shillings—a pound—two pounds!
Thank you, thank you, Torvald; that will keep me going for
Helmer
elmer. Yes, but what about the people who had lent it? a long time.

Nora
ora. They? Who would bother about them? I should not Helmer
elmer. Indeed it must.
know who they were.
Nora
ora. Yes, yes, it will. But come here and let me show you
Helmer
elmer. That is like a woman! But seriously, Nora, you know what I have bought. And all so cheap! Look, here is a new suit
what I think about that. No debt, no borrowing. There can for Ivar, and a sword; and a horse and a trumpet for Bob; and a
be no freedom or beauty about a home life that depends on doll and dolly’s bedstead for Emmy,—they are very plain, but
borrowing and debt. We two have kept bravely on the straight anyway she will soon break them in pieces. And here are dress-
road so far, and we will go on the same way for the short time lengths and handkerchiefs for the maids; old Anne ought really
longer that there need be any struggle. to have something better.

Nora (moving towards the stove). As you please, Torvald. Helmer

elmer. And what is in this parcel?

Helmer (following her). Come, come, my little skylark must Nora (crying out). No, no! you mustn’t see that until this
not droop her wings. What is this! Is my little squirrel out of evening.
temper? (Taking out his purse.) Nora, what do you think I
have got here? Helmer
elmer. Very well. But now tell me, you extravagant little
person, what would you like for yourself?
5
 A Doll’s House
Nora
ora. For myself? Oh, I am sure I don’t want anything. Torvald, and then I shall have time to think what I am most
in want of. That is a very sensible plan, isn’t it?
Helmer
elmer. Yes, but you must. Tell me something reasonable
that you would particularly like to have. Helmer (smiling). Indeed it is—that is to say, if you were
really to save out of the money I give you, and then really buy
Nora
ora. No, I really can’t think of anything—unless, Torvald— something for yourself. But if you spend it all on the house-
keeping and any number of unnecessary things, then I merely
Helmer
elmer. Well? have to pay up again.

Nora (playing with his coat buttons, and without raising her Nora
ora. Oh but, Torvald—
eyes to his). If you really want to give me something, you
might—you might— Helmer
elmer. You can’t deny it, my dear little Nora. (Puts his arm
round her waist.) It’s a sweet little spendthrift, but she uses
Helmer
elmer. Well, out with it! up a deal of money. One would hardly believe how expensive
such little persons are!
Nora (speaking quickly). You might give me money, Torvald.
Only just as much as you can afford; and then one of these Nora
ora. It’s a shame to say that. I do really save all I can.
days I will buy something with it.
Helmer (laughing). That’s very true,—all you can. But you
Helmer
elmer. But, Nora—Nora. Oh, do! dear Torvald; please, can’t save anything!
please do! Then I will wrap it up in beautiful gilt paper and
hang it on the Christmas Tree. Wouldn’t that be fun? Nora (smiling quietly and happily). You haven’t any idea how
many expenses we skylarks and squirrels have, Torvald.
Helmer
elmer. What are little people called that are always wasting
money? Helmer
elmer. You are an odd little soul. Very like your father. You
always find some new way of wheedling money out of me,
Nora
ora. Spendthrifts—I know. Let us do as you suggest, and, as soon as you have got it, it seems to melt in your hands.
6
 Henrik Ibsen
You never know where it has gone. Still, one must take you as Nora Nora. No, certainly not.
you are. It is in the blood; for indeed it is true that you can
inherit these things, Nora. Helmer
elmer. Not even taken a bite at a macaroon or two?

Nora
ora. Ah, I wish I had inherited many of papa’s qualities. Nora
ora. No, Torvald, I assure you really—

Helmer
elmer. And I would not wish you to be anything but just Helmer
elmer. There, there, of course I was only joking.
what you are, my sweet little skylark. But, do you know, it
strikes me that you are looking rather—what shall I say— Nora (going to the table on the right). I should not think of
rather uneasy today? going against your wishes.

Nora
Nora. Do I? Helmer
elmer. No, I am sure of that; besides, you gave me your
word—(Going up to her.) Keep your little Christmas secrets
Helmer
elmer. You do, really. Look straight at me. to yourself, my darling. They will all be revealed tonight when
the Christmas Tree is lit, no doubt.
Nora (looks at him). Well?
Nora
Nora. Did you remember to invite Doctor Rank?
Helmer (wagging his finger at her). Hasn’t Miss Sweet Tooth
been breaking rules in town today? Helmer
elmer. No. But there is no need; as a matter of course he
will come to dinner with us. However, I will ask him when
Nora
Nora. No; what makes you think that? he comes in this morning. I have ordered some good wine.
Nora, you can’t think how I am looking forward to this
Helmer
elmer. Hasn’t she paid a visit to the confectioner’s? evening.

Nora
ora. No, I assure you, Torvald— Nora
Nora. So am I! And how the children will enjoy themselves,
Torvald!
Helmer
elmer. Not been nibbling sweets?
7
 A Doll’s House
elmer. It is splendid to feel that one has a perfectly safe Nora (clapping her hands). No, Torvald, I needn’t any longer,
Helmer
appointment, and a big enough income. It’s delightful to think need I! It’s wonderfully lovely to hear you say so! (Taking his
of, isn’t it? arm.) Now I will tell you how I have been thinking we ought
to arrange things, Torvald. As soon as Christmas is over—(A
Nora
ora. It’s wonderful! bell rings in the hall.) There’s the bell. (She tidies the room a
little.) There’s some one at the door. What a nuisance!
Helmer
elmer. Do you remember last Christmas? For a full three
weeks beforehand you shut yourself up every evening until Helmer elmer. If it is a caller, remember I am not at home.
long after midnight, making ornaments for the Christmas
Tree, and all the other fine things that were to be a surprise to Maid (in the doorway). A lady to see you, ma’am,—a stranger.
us. It was the dullest three weeks I ever spent!
Nora
Nora. Ask her to come in.
Nora
ora. I didn’t find it dull.
Maid (to HELMER
HELMER). The doctor came at the same time,
Helmer (smiling). But there was precious little result, Nora. sir.

Nora
ora. Oh, you shouldn’t tease me about that again. How Helmer
elmer. Did he go straight into my room?
could I help the cat’s going in and tearing everything to pieces?
Maid
aid. Yes, sir.
Helmer
elmer. Of course you couldn’t, poor little girl. You had the
best of intentions to please us all, and that’s the main thing. HELMER goes into his room. The MAID ushers in Mrs
(HELMER Mrs.
But it is a good thing that our hard times are over. LINDE
LINDE, who is in travelling dress, and shuts the door.) Mrs.
Linde (in a dejected and timid voice). How do you do, Nora?
Nora
ora. Yes, it is really wonderful.
Nora (doubtfully). How do you do—Mrs. Linde. You don’t
Helmer
elmer. This time I needn’t sit here and be dull all alone, and recognise me, I suppose.
you needn’t ruin your dear eyes and your pretty little hands—
8
 Henrik Ibsen
Nora
ora. No, I don’t know—yes, to be sure, I seem to—(Sud- Nora ora. Perhaps a little older; very, very little; certainly not
denly.) Yes! Christine! Is it really you? much. (Stops suddenly and speaks seriously.) What a thought-
less creature I am, chattering away like this. My poor, dear
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, it is I. Christine, do forgive me.

Nora
ora. Christine! To think of my not recognising you! And Mrs. Linde
Linde. What do you mean, Nora?
yet how could I—(In a gentle voice.) How you have altered,
Christine! Nora (gently). Poor Christine, you are a widow.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, I have indeed. In nine, ten long years— Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes; it is three years ago now.

Nora
ora. Is it so long since we met? I suppose it is. The last eight Nora
ora. Yes, I knew; I saw it in the papers. I assure you, Chris-
years have been a happy time for me, I can tell you. And so tine, I meant ever so often to write to you at the time, but I
now you have come into the town, and have taken this long always put it off and something always prevented me.
journey in winter—that was plucky of you.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. I quite understand, dear.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. I arrived by steamer this morning.
Nora
ora. It was very bad of me, Christine. Poor thing, how you
Nora
ora. To have some fun at Christmas-time, of course. How must have suffered. And he left you nothing?
delightful! We will have such fun together! But take off your
things. You are not cold, I hope. (Helps her.) Now we will sit Mrs. Linde
Linde. No.
down by the stove, and be cosy. No, take this armchair; I will
sit here in the rocking-chair. (Takes her hands.) Now you Nora
Nora. And no children?
look like your old self again; it was only the first moment—
You are a little paler, Christine, and perhaps a little thinner. Mrs. Linde
Linde. No.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. And much, much older, Nora. Nora
Nora. Nothing at all, then.
9
 A Doll’s House
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Not even any sorrow or grief to live upon. Nora
ora. Yes, tremendous! A barrister’s profession is such an
uncertain thing, especially if he won’t undertake unsavoury
Nora (looking incredulously at her). But, Christine, is that cases; and naturally Torvald has never been willing to do that,
possible? and I quite agree with him. You may imagine how pleased we
are! He is to take up his work in the Bank at the New Year,
Mrs. Linde (smiles sadly and strokes her hair). It sometimes and then he will have a big salary and lots of commissions.
happens, Nora. For the future we can live quite differently—we can do just as
we like. I feel so relieved and so happy, Christine! It will be
Nora
Nora. So you are quite alone. How dreadfully sad that must splendid to have heaps of money and not need to have any
be. I have three lovely children. You can’t see them just now, anxiety, won’t it?
for they are out with their nurse. But now you must tell me
all about it. Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, anyhow I think it would be delightful to
have what one needs.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. No, no; I want to hear about you.
Nora
Nora. No, not only what one needs, but heaps and heaps of
Nora
ora. No, you must begin. I mustn’t be selfish today; today money.
I must only think of your affairs. But there is one thing I
must tell you. Do you know we have just had a great piece of Mrs. Linde (smiling). Nora, Nora, haven’t you learned sense
good luck? yet? In our schooldays you were a great spendthrift.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. No, what is it? Nora (laughing). Yes, that is what Torvald says now. (Wags
her linger at her.) But “Nora, Nora” is not so silly as you
Nora
ora. Just fancy, my husband has been made manager of the think. We have not been in a position for me to waste money.
Bank! We have both had to work.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Your husband? What good luck! Mrs. Linde
Linde. You too?

10
 Henrik Ibsen
ora. Yes; odds and ends, needlework, crotchet-work, em- Mrs. Linde
Nora Linde. Oh, I see. It was just about that time that he
broidery, and that kind of thing. (Dropping her voice.) And died, wasn’t it?
other things as well. You know Torvald left his office when
we were married? There was no prospect of promotion there, Nora ora. Yes; and, just think of it, I couldn’t go and nurse him.
and he had to try and earn more than before. But during the I was expecting little Ivar’s birth every day and I had my poor
first year he over-worked himself dreadfully. You see, he had sick Torvald to look after. My dear, kind father—I never saw
to make money every way he could, and he worked early and him again, Christine. That was the saddest time I have known
late; but he couldn’t stand it, and fell dreadfully ill, and the since our marriage.
doctors said it was necessary for him to go south.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. I know how fond you were of him. And then
Mrs. Linde
Linde. You spent a whole year in Italy, didn’t you? you went off to Italy?

Nora
ora. Yes. It was no easy matter to get away, I can tell you. It Nora
ora. Yes; you see we had money then, and the doctors in-
was just after Ivar was born; but naturally we had to go. It was a sisted on our going, so we started a month later.
wonderfully beautiful journey, and it saved Torvald’s life. But it
cost a tremendous lot of money, Christine. Mrs. Linde
Linde. And your husband came back quite well?

Mrs. Linde
Linde. So I should think. Nora
Nora. As sound as a bell!

Nora
ora. It cost about two hundred and fifty pounds. That’s a Mrs. Linde
Linde. But—the doctor?
lot, isn’t it?
Nora
Nora. What doctor?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, and in emergencies like that it is lucky to
have the money. Mrs. Linde
Linde. I thought your maid said the gentleman who
arrived here just as I did, was the doctor?
Nora
Nora. I ought to tell you that we had it from papa.
Nora
ora. Yes, that was Doctor Rank, but he doesn’t come here
11
 A Doll’s House
professionally. He is our greatest friend, and comes in at least me no more, for she is gone; and the boys do not need me
once everyday. No, Torvald has not had an hour’s illness since either; they have got situations and can shift for themselves.
then, and our children are strong and healthy and so am I.
(Jumps up and claps her hands.) Christine! Christine! it’s good NoraNora. What a relief you must feel if—
to be alive and happy!—But how horrid of me; I am talking
of nothing but my own affairs. (Sits on a stool near her, and Mrs. Linde Linde. No, indeed; I only feel my life unspeakably
rests her arms on her knees.) You mustn’t be angry with me. empty. No one to live for anymore. (Gets up restlessly.) That
Tell me, is it really true that you did not love your husband? was why I could not stand the life in my little backwater any
Why did you marry him? longer. I hope it may be easier here to find something which
will busy me and occupy my thoughts. If only I could have
Mrs. Linde
Linde. My mother was alive then, and was bedridden the good luck to get some regular work—office work of some
and helpless, and I had to provide for my two younger broth- kind—
ers; so I did not think I was justified in refusing his offer.
Nora
Nora. But, Christine, that is so frightfully tiring, and you
Nora
Nora. No, perhaps you were quite right. He was rich at that look tired out now. You had far better go away to some wa-
time, then? tering-place.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. I believe he was quite well off. But his business Mrs. Linde (walking to the window). I have no father to
was a precarious one; and, when he died, it all went to pieces give me money for a journey, Nora.
and there was nothing left.
Nora (rising). Oh, don’t be angry with me!
Nora
Nora. And then?—
Mrs. Linde (going up to her). It is you that must not be
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Well, I had to turn my hand to anything I could angry with me, dear. The worst of a position like mine is that
find—first a small shop, then a small school, and so on. The it makes one so bitter. No one to work for, and yet obliged to
last three years have seemed like one long working-day, with be always on the lookout for chances. One must live, and so
no rest. Now it is at an end, Nora. My poor mother needs one becomes selfish. When you told me of the happy turn
12
 Henrik Ibsen
your fortunes have taken—you will hardly believe it—I was Nora ora. You are just like the others. They all think that I am
delighted not so much on your account as on my own. incapable of anything really serious—

Nora
ora. How do you mean?—Oh, I understand. You mean Mrs. Linde
Linde. Come, come—
that perhaps Torvald could get you something to do.
Nora
Nora.—that I have gone through nothing in this world of
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, that was what I was thinking of. cares.

Nora
ora. He must, Christine. Just leave it to me; I will broach Mrs. Linde
Linde. But, my dear Nora, you have just told me all
the subject very cleverly—I will think of something that will your troubles.
please him very much. It will make me so happy to be of
some use to you. Nora
ora. Pooh!—those were trifles. (Lowering her voice.) I have
not told you the important thing.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. How kind you are, Nora, to be so anxious to
help me! It is doubly kind in you, for you know so little of Mrs. Linde
Linde. The important thing? What do you mean?
the burdens and troubles of life.
Nora
ora. You look down upon me altogether, Christine—but
Nora
Nora. I—? I know so little of them? you ought not to. You are proud, aren’t you, of having worked
so hard and so long for your mother?
Mrs. Linde (smiling). My dear! Small household cares and
that sort of thing!—You are a child, Nora. Mrs. Linde
Linde. Indeed, I don’t look down on anyone. But it is
true that I am both proud and glad to think that I was privi-
Nora (tosses her head and crosses the stage). You ought not leged to make the end of my mother’s life almost free from
to be so superior. care.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. No? Nora
Nora. And you are proud to think of what you have done for
your brothers?
13
 A Doll’s House
Mrs. Linde
Linde. I think I have the right to be. Mrs. Linde
Linde. But—

Nora
ora. I think so, too. But now, listen to this; I too have Nora
ora. Papa didn’t give us a shilling. It was I who procured
something to be proud and glad of. the money.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. I have no doubt you have. But what do you Mrs. Linde
Linde. You? All that large sum?
refer to?
Nora
ora. Two hundred and fifty pounds. What do you think of that?
Nora
ora. Speak low. Suppose Torvald were to hear! He mustn’t
on any account—no one in the world must know, Christine, Mrs. Linde
Linde. But, Nora, how could you possibly do it? Did
except you. you win a prize in the Lottery?

Mrs. Linde
Linde. But what is it? Nora (contemptuously). In the Lottery? There would have
been no credit in that.
Nora
ora. Come here. (Pulls her down on the sofa beside her.)
Now I will show you that I too have something to be proud Mrs. Linde
Linde. But where did you get it from, then? Nora (hum-
and glad of. It was I who saved Torvald’s life. ming and smiling with an air of mystery). Hm, hm! Aha!

Mrs. Linde
Linde. “Saved”? How? Mrs. Linde
Linde. Because you couldn’t have borrowed it.

Nora
ora. I told you about our trip to Italy. Torvald would never Nora
ora. Couldn’t I? Why not?
have recovered if he had not gone there—
Mrs. Linde
Linde. No, a wife cannot borrow without her husband’s
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, but your father gave you the necessary funds. consent.

Nora (smiling). Yes, that is what Torvald and all the others Nora (tossing her head). Oh, if it is a wife who has any head
think, but— for business—a wife who has the wit to be a little bit clever—
14
 Henrik Ibsen
Mrs. Linde
Linde. I don’t understand it at all, Nora. love to travel abroad like other young wives; I tried tears and
entreaties with him; I told him that he ought to remember
Nora. Ther
Theree is no need you should. I never said I had bor- the condition I was in, and that he ought to be kind and
rowed the money. I may have got it some other way. (Lies indulgent to me; I even hinted that he might raise a loan.
back on the sofa.) Perhaps I got it from some other admirer. That nearly made him angry, Christine. He said I was thought-
When anyone is as attractive as I am— less, and that it was his duty as my husband not to indulge
me in my whims and caprices—as I believe he called them.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. You are a mad creature. Very well, I thought, you must be saved—and that was how
I came to devise a way out of the difficulty—
Nora
ora. Now, you know you’re full of curiosity, Christine.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. And did your husband never get to know from
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Listen to me, Nora dear. Haven’t you been a your father that the money had not come from him?
little bit imprudent?
Nora
ora. No, never. Papa died just at that time. I had meant to
Nora (sits up straight). Is it imprudent to save your husband’s let him into the secret and beg him never to reveal it. But he
life? was so ill then—alas, there never was any need to tell him.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. It seems to me imprudent, without his knowl- Mrs. Linde
Linde. And since then have you never told your secret
edge, to— to your husband?

Nora
Nora. But it was absolutely necessary that he should not know! Nora
Nora. Good Heavens, no! How could you think so? A man
My goodness, can’t you understand that? It was necessary he who has such strong opinions about these things! And be-
should have no idea what a dangerous condition he was in. It sides, how painful and humiliating it would be for Torvald,
was to me that the doctors came and said that his life was in with his manly independence, to know that he owed me any-
danger, and that the only thing to save him was to live in the thing! It would upset our mutual relations altogether; our
south. Do you suppose I didn’t try, first of all, to get what I beautiful happy home would no longer be what it is now.
wanted as if it were for myself? I told him how much I should
15
 A Doll’s House
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Do you mean never to tell him about it? such things, I have never spent more than half of it; I have
always bought the simplest and cheapest things. Thank
Nora (meditatively, and with a half smile). Yes—someday, Heaven, any clothes look well on me, and so Torvald has
perhaps, after many years, when I am no longer as nice-look- never noticed it. But it was often very hard on me, Chris-
ing as I am now. Don’t laugh at me! I mean, of course, when tine—because it is delightful to be really well dressed, isn’t it?
Torvald is no longer as devoted to me as he is now; when my
dancing and dressing-up and reciting have palled on him; then Mrs. Linde Linde. Quite so.
it may be a good thing to have something in reserve—(Break-
ing off.) What nonsense! That time will never come. Now, Nora ora. Well, then I have found other ways of earning money.
what do you think of my great secret, Christine? Do you still Last winter I was lucky enough to get a lot of copying to do;
think I am of no use? I can tell you, too, that this affair has so I locked myself up and sat writing every evening until quite
caused me a lot of worry. It has been by no means easy for me late at night. Many a time I was desperately tired; but all the
to meet my engagements punctually. I may tell you that there same it was a tremendous pleasure to sit there working and
is something that is called, in business, quarterly interest, and earning money. It was like being a man.
another thing called payment in installments, and it is always
so dreadfully difficult to manage them. I have had to save a Mrs. Linde Linde. How much have you been able to pay off in
little here and there, where I could, you understand. I have that way?
not been able to put aside much from my housekeeping
money, for Torvald must have a good table. I couldn’t let my Nora ora. I can’t tell you exactly. You see, it is very difficult to
children be shabbily dressed; I have felt obliged to use up all keep an account of a business matter of that kind. I only
he gave me for them, the sweet little darlings! know that I have paid every penny that I could scrape to-
gether. Many a time I was at my wits’ end. (Smiles.) Then I
Mrs. Linde
Linde. So it has all had to come out of your own nec- used to sit here and imagine that a rich old gentleman had
essaries of life, poor Nora? fallen in love with me—

Nora
Nora. Of course. Besides, I was the one responsible for it. Mrs. Linde
Linde. What! Who was it?
Whenever Torvald has given me money for new dresses and
16
 Henrik Ibsen
Nora
Nora. Be quiet!—that he had died; and that when his will Ser ervvant (at the hall door). Excuse me, ma’am—there is a
was opened it contained, written in big letters, the instruc- gentleman to see the master, and as the doctor is with him—
tion: “The lovely Mrs. Nora Helmer is to have all I possess Nora. Who is it?
paid over to her at once in cash.”
Kr ogstad (at the door). It is I, Mrs. Helmer. (Mrs.
Krogstad Mrs. LINDE
Mrs. Linde
Linde. But, my dear Nora—who could the man be? starts, trembles, and turns to the window.)

Nora
ora. Good gracious, can’t you understand? There was no Nora (takes a step towards him, and speaks in a strained, low
old gentleman at all; it was only something that I used to sit voice). You? What is it? What do you want to see my hus-
here and imagine, when I couldn’t think of any way of pro- band about?
curing money. But it’s all the same now; the tiresome old
person can stay where he is, as far as I am concerned; I don’t Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Bank business—in a way. I have a small post in
care about him or his will either, for I am free from care now. the Bank, and I hear your husband is to be our chief now—
(Jumps up.) My goodness, it’s delightful to think of, Chris-
tine! Free from care! To be able to be free from care, quite free Nora
ora. Then it is—
from care; to be able to play and romp with the children; to
be able to keep the house beautifully and have everything just Krogstad
Krogstad. Nothing but dry business matters, Mrs. Helmer;
as Torvald likes it! And, think of it, soon the spring will come absolutely nothing else.
and the big blue sky! Perhaps we shall be able to take a little
trip—perhaps I shall see the sea again! Oh, it’s a wonderful Nora
ora. Be so good as to go into the study, then. (She bows
thing to be alive and be happy. (A bell is heard in the hall.) indifferently to him and shuts the door into the hall; then
comes back and makes up the fire in the stove.)
Mrs. Linde (rising). There is the bell; perhaps I had better go.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Nora—who was that man?
Nora
ora. No, don’t go; no one will come in here; it is sure to be
for Torvald. Nora
ora. A lawyer, of the name of Krogstad.

17
 A Doll’s House
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Then it really was he. pardon; I am afraid I am disturbing you too.

Nora
Nora. Do you know the man? Nora
Nora. No, not at all. (Introducing him). Doctor Rank, Mrs.
Linde.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. I used to— many years ago. At one time he was
a solicitor’s clerk in our town. Rank
Rank. I have often heard Mrs. Linde’s name mentioned here.
I think I passed you on the stairs when I arrived, Mrs. Linde?
Nora
ora. Yes, he was.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, I go up very slowly; I can’t manage stairs
Mrs. Linde
Linde. He is greatly altered. well.

Nora
Nora. He made a very unhappy marriage. Rank
Rank. Ah! some slight internal weakness?

Mrs. Linde
Linde. He is a widower now, isn’t he? Mrs. Linde
Linde. No, the fact is I have been overworking myself.

Nora
ora. With several children. There now, it is burning up. Rank
Rank. Nothing more than that? Then I suppose you have
Shuts the door of the stove and moves the rocking-chair aside.) come to town to amuse yourself with our entertainments?

Mrs. Linde
Linde. They say he carries on various kinds of business. Mrs. Linde
Linde. I have come to look for work.

Nora
ora. Really! Perhaps he does; I don’t know anything about Rank
Rank. Is that a good cure for overwork?
it. But don’t let us think of business; it is so tiresome.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. One must live, Doctor Rank.
Doctor Rank (comes out of HELMER’S study. Before he
shuts the door he calls to him). No, my dear fellow, I won’t Rank
Rank. Yes, the general opinion seems to be that it is neces-
disturb you; I would rather go in to your wife for a little sary.
while. (Shuts the door and sees Mrs. LINDE
LINDE.) I beg your
18
 Henrik Ibsen
Nora
Nora. Look here, Doctor Rank—you know you want to the world that there are certain people who go zealously snuff-
live. ing about to smell out moral corruption, and, as soon as they
have found some, put the person concerned into some lucra-
Rank
Rank. Certainly. However wretched I may feel, I want to tive position where they can keep their eye on him. Healthy
prolong the agony as long as possible. All my patients are like natures are left out in the cold.
that. And so are those who are morally diseased; one of them,
and a bad case too, is at this very moment with Helmer— Mrs. Linde
Linde. Still I think the sick are those who most need
taking care of.
Mrs. Linde (sadly). Ah!
Rank (shrugging his shoulders). Yes, there you are. That is
Nora. Whom do you mean? the sentiment that is turning Society into a sick-house.

Rank
Rank. A lawyer of the name of Krogstad, a fellow you don’t (NORA
NORA, who has been absorbed in her thoughts, breaks out
NORA
know at all. He suffers from a diseased moral character, Mrs. into smothered laughter and claps her hands.)
Helmer; but even he began talking of its being highly impor-
tant that he should live. Rank
Rank. Why do you laugh at that? Have you any notion what
Society really is?
Nora
ora. Did he? What did he want to speak to Torvald about?
Nora
Nora. What do I care about tiresome Society? I am laughing
Rank
Rank. I have no idea; I only heard that it was something at something quite different, something extremely amusing.
about the Bank. Tell me, Doctor Rank, are all the people who are employed
in the Bank dependent on Torvald now?
Nora
ora. I didn’t know this—what’s his name—Krogstad had
anything to do with the Bank. Rank
Rank. Is that what you find so extremely amusing?

Rank
Rank. Yes, he has some sort of appointment there. (To Mrs. Nora (smiling and humming). That’s my affair! (Walking
LINDE
LINDE.) I don’t know whether you find also in your part of about the room.) It’s perfectly glorious to think that we have—
19
 A Doll’s House
that Torvald has so much power over so many people. (Takes Mrs. Linde
Linde. Shocking?
the packet from her pocket.) Doctor Rank, what do you say
to a macaroon? Rank
Rank. Well, I should not advise you to say it. Still, with us
you might. What is it you would so much like to say if Torvald
Rank
Rank. What, macaroons? I thought they were forbidden here. could hear you?

Nora
ora. Yes, but these are some Christine gave me. Nora
ora. I should just love to say—Well, I’m damned!

Mrs. Linde
Linde. What! I?— Rank
Rank. Are you mad?

Nora
ora. Oh, well, don’t be alarmed! You couldn’t know that Mrs. Linde
Linde. Nora, dear—!
Torvald had forbidden them. I must tell you that he is afraid
they will spoil my teeth. But, bah!—once in a way—That’s Rank
Rank. Say it, here he is!
so, isn’t it, Doctor Rank? By your leave! (Puts a macaroon
into his mouth.) You must have one too, Christine. And I Nora (hiding the packet). Hush! Hush! Hush! (HELMER
HELMER
shall have one, just a little one-or at most two. (Walking comes out of his room, with his coat over his arm and his hat
about.) I am tremendously happy. There is just one thing in in his hand.)
the world now that I should dearly love to do.
Nora
ora. Well, Torvald dear, have you got rid of him?
Rank
Rank. Well, what is that?
Helmer
elmer. Yes, he has just gone.
Nora
ora. It’s something I should dearly love to say, if Torvald
could hear me. Nora
Nora. Let me introduce you—this is Christine, who has come
to town.
Rank
Rank. Well, why can’t you say it?
Helmer
elmer. Christine—? Excuse me, but I don’t know—
Nora
ora. No, I daren’t; it’s so shocking.
20
 Henrik Ibsen
Nora
Nora. Mrs. Linde, dear; Christine Linde. elmer. And have had some experience of book-keeping?
Helmer

Helmer
elmer. Of course. A school friend of my wife’s, I presume? Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, a fair amount.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, we have known each other since then. Helmer
elmer. Ah! well, it’s very likely I may be able to find some-
thing for you—
Nora
Nora. And just think, she has taken a long journey in order
to see you. Nora (clapping her hands). What did I tell you? What did I
tell you?
Helmer
elmer. What do you mean? Mrs. Linde. No, really, I—
Helmer
elmer. You have just come at a fortunate moment, Mrs.
Nora
Nora. Christine is tremendously clever at book-keeping, and Linde.
she is frightfully anxious to work under some clever man, so
as to perfect herself— Mrs. Linde
Linde. How am I to thank you?

Helmer
elmer. Very sensible, Mrs. Linde. Helmer
elmer. There is no need. (Puts on his coat.) But today you
must excuse me—
Nora
Nora. And when she heard you had been appointed manager
of the Bank—the news was telegraphed, you know—she trav- Rank
Rank. Wait a minute; I will come with you. (Brings his fur
elled here as quick as she could. Torvald, I am sure you will be coat from the hall and warms it at the fire.)
able to do something for Christine, for my sake, won’t you?
Nora
ora. Don’t be long away, Torvald dear.
Helmer
elmer. Well, it is not altogether impossible. I presume you
are a widow, Mrs. Linde? Helmer
elmer. About an hour, not more.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes. Nora
Nora. Are you going too, Christine?

21
 A Doll’s House
Mrs. Linde (putting on her cloak). Yes, I must go and look (RANK RANK
RANK, HELMER
HELMER, and Mrs. LINDE go downstairs. The
for a room. NURSE comes forward with the children; NORA shuts the
hall door.)
Helmer
elmer. Oh, well then, we can walk down the street to-
gether. Nora
Nora. How fresh and well you look! Such red cheeks like
apples and roses. (The children all talk at once while she speaks
Nora (helping her). What a pity it is we are so short of space to them.) Have you had great fun? That’s splendid! What,
here; I am afraid it is impossible for us— you pulled both Emmy and Bob along on the sledge? —both
at once?—that was good. You are a clever boy, Ivar. Let me
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Please don’t think of it! Goodbye, Nora dear, take her for a little, Anne. My sweet little baby doll! (Takes
and many thanks. the baby from the MAID and dances it up and down.) Yes,
yes, mother will dance with Bob too. What! Have you been
Nora. Goodbye for the present. Of course you will come snowballing? I wish I had been there too! No, no, I will take
back this evening. And you too, Dr. Rank. What do you say? their things off, Anne; please let me do it, it is such fun. Go
If you are well enough? Oh, you must be! Wrap yourself up in now, you look half frozen. There is some hot coffee for
well. (They go to the door all talking together. Children’s you on the stove.
voices are heard on the staircase.)
(The NURSE goes into the room on the left. NORA takes
Nora. There they are! There they are! (She runs to open the off the children’s things and throws them about, while they
door. The NURSE comes in with the children.) Come in! all talk to her at once.)
Come in! (Stoops and kisses them.) Oh, you sweet blessings!
Look at them, Christine! Aren’t they darlings? Nora
ora. Really! Did a big dog run after you? But it didn’t bite
you? No, dogs don’t bite nice little dolly children. You mustn’t
Rank
Rank. Don’t let us stand here in the draught. look at the parcels, Ivar. What are they? Ah, I daresay you
would like to know. No, no—it’s something nasty! Come,
Helmer
elmer. Come along, Mrs. Linde; the place will only be bear- let us have a game! What shall we play at? Hide and Seek? Yes,
able for a mother now! we’ll play Hide and Seek. Bob shall hide first. Must I hide?
22
 Henrik Ibsen
Very well, I’ll hide first. (She and the children laugh and shout, What? No, the strange man won’t do mother any harm. When
and romp in and out of the room; at last NORA hides under he has gone we will have another game. (She takes the chil-
the table, the children rush in and out for her, but do not see dren into the room on the left, and shuts the door after them.)
her; they hear her smothered laughter, run to the table, lift up You want to speak to me?
the cloth and find her. Shouts of laughter. She crawls forward
and pretends to frighten them. Fresh laughter. Meanwhile Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Yes, I do.
there has been a knock at the hall door, but none of them has
noticed it. The door is half opened, and KR OGST
KROGST
OGSTAD AD ap- Nora
ora. Today? It is not the first of the month yet.
pears, lie waits a little; the game goes on.)
Krogstad
Krogstad. No, it is Christmas Eve, and it will depend on
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Excuse me, Mrs. Helmer. yourself what sort of a Christmas you will spend.

Nora (with a stifled cry, turns round and gets up on to her Nora
ora. What do you mean? Today it is absolutely impossible
knees). Ah! what do you want? for me—

Krogstad
Krogstad. Excuse me, the outer door was ajar; I suppose Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. We won’t talk about that until later on. This is
someone forgot to shut it. something different. I presume you can give me a moment?

Nora (rising). My husband is out, Mr. Krogstad. Nora

ora. Yes—yes, I can—although—

Krogstad
Krogstad. I know that. Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Good. I was in Olsen’s Restaurant and saw your
husband going down the street—
Nora
Nora. What do you want here, then?
Nora
ora. Yes?
Krogstad
Krogstad. A word with you.
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. With a lady.
Nora
ora. With me?—(To the children, gently.) Go in to nurse.
23
 A Doll’s House
Nora
Nora. What then? Krogstad
Krogstad. I was right in what I thought, then.

Krogstad
Krogstad. May I make so bold as to ask if it was a Mrs. Nora (walking up and down the stage). Sometimes one has a
Linde? tiny little bit of influence, I should hope. Because one is a
woman, it does not necessarily follow that—. When anyone
Nora
Nora. It was. is in a subordinate position, Mr. Krogstad, they should really
be careful to avoid offending anyone who—who—
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Just arrived in town?
Krogstad
Krogstad. Who has influence?
Nora
ora. Yes, today.
Nora
ora. Exactly.
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. She is a great friend of yours, isn’t she?
Krogstad (changing his tone). Mrs. Helmer, you will be so
Krogstad
Nora
ora. She is. But I don’t see— good as to use your influence on my behalf.

Krogstad
Krogstad. I knew her too, once upon a time. Nora
Nora. What? What do you mean?

Nora
Nora. I am aware of that. Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. You will be so kind as to see that I am allowed to
keep my subordinate position in the Bank.
Krogstad
Krogstad. Are you? So you know all about it; I thought as
much. Then I can ask you, without beating about the bush— Nora
Nora. What do you mean by that? Who proposes to take
is Mrs. Linde to have an appointment in the Bank? your post away from you?

ora. What right have you to question me, Mr. Krogstad?—

Nora Krogstad
Krogstad. Oh, there is no necessity to keep up the pretence
You, one of my husband’s subordinates! But since you ask, you of ignorance. I can quite understand that your friend is not
shall know. Yes, Mrs. Linde is to have an appointment. And it very anxious to expose herself to the chance of rubbing shoul-
was I who pleaded her cause, Mr. Krogstad, let me tell you that. ders with me; and I quite understand, too, whom I have to
24
 Henrik Ibsen
thank for being turned off. Year comes, I shall in a very short time be free of the whole
thing.
Nora
Nora. But I assure you—
Kr ogstad (controlling himself ). Listen to me, Mrs. Helmer.
Krogstad
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Very likely; but, to come to the point, the time If necessary) I am prepared to fight for my small post in the
has come when I should advise you to use your influence to Bank as if I were fighting for my life.
prevent that.
Nora
Nora. So it seems.
Nora
ora. But, Mr. Krogstad, I have no influence.
Krogstad
Krogstad. It is not only for the sake of the money; indeed,
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Haven’t you? I thought you said yourself just that weighs least with me in the matter. There is another rea-
now— son—well, I may as well tell you. My position is this. I daresay
you know, like everybody else, that once, many years ago, I
Nora
Nora. Naturally I did not mean you to put that construction was guilty of an indiscretion.
on it. I! What should make you think I have any influence of
that kind with my husband? Nora
Nora. I think I have heard something of the kind.

Krogstad
Krogstad. Oh, I have known your husband from our stu- Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. The matter never came into court; but every way
dent days. I don’t suppose he is any more unassailable than seemed to be closed to me after that. So I took to the busi-
other husbands. ness that you know of. I had to do something; and, honestly,
I don’t think I’ve been one of the worst. But now I must cut
Nora
Nora. If you speak slightingly of my husband, I shall turn myself free from all that. My sons are growing up; for their
you out of the house. sake I must try and win back as much respect as I can in the
town. This post in the Bank was like the first step up for
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. You are bold, Mrs. Helmer. me— and now your husband is going to kick me downstairs
again into the mud.
Nora
ora. I am not afraid of you any longer. As soon as the New
25
 A Doll’s House
Nora
ora. But you must believe me, Mr. Krogstad; it is not in will at once pay you what is still owing, and we shall have
my power to help you at all. nothing more to do with you.

Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Then it is because you haven’t the will; but I have Kr ogstad (coming a step nearer). Listen to me, Mrs. Helmer.
Krogstad
means to compel you. Either you have a very bad memory or you know very little
of business. I shall be obliged to remind you of a few details.
Nora
ora. You don’t mean that you will tell my husband that I
owe you money? Nora
Nora. What do you mean?

Krogstad
Krogstad. Hm!—suppose I were to tell him? Krogstad
Krogstad. When your husband was ill, you came to me to
borrow two hundred and fifty pounds.
Nora
ora. It would be perfectly infamous of you. (Sobbing.) To
think of his learning my secret, which has been my joy and Nora
ora. I didn’t know anyone else to go to.
pride, in such an ugly, clumsy way— that he should learn it
from you! And it would put me in a horribly disagreeable Krogstad
Krogstad. I promised to get you that amount—
position—
Nora
ora. Yes, and you did so.
Krogstad
Krogstad. Only disagreeable?
Krogstad
Krogstad. I promised to get you that amount, on certain
Nora (impetuously). Well, do it, then!—and it will be the conditions. Your mind was so taken up with your husband’s
worse for you. My husband will see for himself what a black- illness, and you were so anxious to get the money for your
guard you are, and you certainly won’t keep your post then. journey, that you seem to have paid no attention to the con-
ditions of our bargain. Therefore it will not be amiss if I re-
Krogstad
Krogstad. I asked you if it was only a disagreeable scene at mind you of them. Now, I promised to get the money on
home that you were afraid of? the security of a bond which I drew up.

Nora
Nora. If my husband does get to know of it, of course he Nora
ora. Yes, and which I signed.
26
 Henrik Ibsen
Krogstad
Krogstad. Good. But below your signature there were a few Nora Nora. It was, indeed.
lines constituting your father a surety for the money; those
lines your father should have signed. Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Your father was very ill, wasn’t he?

Nora
Nora. Should? He did sign them. Nora
Nora. He was very near his end.

Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. I had left the date blank; that is to say, your father Krogstad
Krogstad. And died soon afterwards?
should himself have inserted the date on which he signed the
paper. Do you remember that? Nora
ora. Yes.

Nora
ora. Yes, I think I remember— Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Tell me, Mrs. Helmer, can you by any chance re-
member what day your father died?—on what day of the
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Then I gave you the bond to send by post to your month, I mean.
father. Is that not so?
Nora
ora. Papa died on the 29th of September.
Nora
ora. Yes.
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. That is correct; I have ascertained it for myself.
Krogstad
Krogstad. And you naturally did so at once, because five or And, as that is so, there is a discrepancy (taking a paper from
six days afterwards you brought me the bond with your father’s his pocket) which I cannot account for.
signature. And then I gave you the money.
Nora
ora. What discrepancy? I don’t know—
Nora
ora. Well, haven’t I been paying it off regularly?
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. The discrepancy consists, Mrs. Helmer, in the fact
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Fairly so, yes. But—to come back to the matter in that your father signed this bond three days after his death.
hand—that must have been a very trying time for you, Mrs.
Helmer? Nora
ora. What do you mean? I don’t understand—

27
 A Doll’s House
Kr ogstad. Your father died on the 29th of September. But, Krogstad
ogstad
Krogstad Krogstad. It would have been better for you if you had given
look here; your father has dated his signature the 2nd of Oc- up your trip abroad.
NORA is silent.) Can you
tober. It is a discrepancy, isn’t it? (NORA
NORA is still silent.) It is a remarkable Nora
explain it to me? (NORA ora. No, that was impossible. That trip was to save my
thing, too, that the words “2nd of October,” as well as the husband’s life; I couldn’t give that up.
year, are not written in your father’s handwriting but in one
that I think I know. Well, of course it can be explained; your Krogstad
Krogstad. But did it never occur to you that you were com-
father may have forgotten to date his signature, and someone mitting a fraud on me?
else may have dated it haphazard before they knew of his
death. There is no harm in that. It all depends on the signa- Nora ora. I couldn’t take that into account; I didn’t trouble my-
ture of the name; and that is genuine, I suppose, Mrs. Helmer? self about you at all. I couldn’t bear you, because you put so
It was your father himself who signed his name here? many heartless difficulties in my way, although you knew
what a dangerous condition my husband was in.
Nora (after a short pause, throws her head up and looks defi-
antly at him). No, it was not. It was I that wrote papa’s name. Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Mrs. Helmer, you evidently do not realise clearly
what it is that you have been guilty of. But I can assure you
Krogstad
Krogstad. Are you aware that is a dangerous confession? that my one false step, which lost me all my reputation, was
nothing more or nothing worse than what you have done.
Nora
ora. In what way? You shall have your money soon.
Nora
ora. You? Do you ask me to believe that you were brave
Krogstad
Krogstad. Let me ask you a question; why did you not send enough to run a risk to save your wife’s life?
the paper to your father?
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. The law cares nothing about motives.
Nora
Nora. It was impossible; papa was so ill. If I had asked him for
his signature, I should have had to tell him what the money Nora ora. Then it must be a very foolish law.
was to be used for; and when he was so ill himself I couldn’t tell
him that my husband’s life was in danger— it was impossible. Kr ogstad
ogstad. Foolish or not, it is the law by which you will be
Krogstad
28
 Henrik Ibsen
judged, if I produce this paper in court. Children. No, mother; but will you come and play again?
Children

Nora
ora. I don’t believe it. Is a daughter not to be allowed to Nora
ora. No, no,—not now.
spare her dying father anxiety and care? Is a wife not to be
allowed to save her husband’s life? I don’t know much about Children
Children
en. But, mother, you promised us.
law; but I am certain that there must be laws permitting such
things as that. Have you no knowledge of such laws— you Nora
ora. Yes, but I can’t now. Run away in; I have such a lot to
who are a lawyer? You must be a very poor lawyer, Mr. do. Run away in, my sweet little darlings. (She gets them into
Krogstad. the room by degrees and shuts the door on them; then sits
down on the sofa, takes up a piece of needlework and sews a
Krogstad
Krogstad. Maybe. But matters of business—such business as few stitches, but soon stops.) No! (Throws down the work,
you and I have had together—do you think I don’t under- gets up, goes to the hall door and calls out.) Helen! bring the
stand that? Very well. Do as you please. But let me tell you Tree in. (Goes to the table on the left, opens a drawer, and
this—if I lose my position a second time, you shall lose yours stops again.) No, no! it is quite impossible!
with me. (He bows, and goes out through the hall.)
Maid (coming in with the Tree). Where shall I put it, ma’am?
Nora (appears buried in thought for a short time, then tosses
her head). Nonsense! Trying to frighten me like that!—I am Nora
ora. Here, in the middle of the floor.
not so silly as he thinks. (Begins to busy herself putting the
children’s things in order.) And yet—? No, it’s impossible! I Maid
Maid. Shall I get you anything else?
did it for love’s sake.
Nora
Nora. No, thank you. I have all I want. [Exit MAID
MAID.]
The Childr en (in the doorway on the left). Mother, the
Children
stranger man has gone out through the gate. Nora (begins dressing the tree). A candle here-and flowers
here—The horrible man! It’s all nonsense—there’s nothing
Nora
ora. Yes, dears, I know. But, don’t tell anyone about the wrong. The tree shall be splendid! I will do everything I can
stranger man. Do you hear? Not even papa. think of to please you, Torvald!—I will sing for you, dance
29
 A Doll’s House
HELMER comes in with some papers under his Nora
for you—(HELMER Nora. A lie—?
arm.) Oh! are you back already?
Helmer
elmer. Didn’t you tell me no one had been here? (Shakes
Helmer
elmer. Yes. Has anyone been here? his finger at her.) My little songbird must never do that again.
A songbird must have a clean beak to chirp with— no false
Nora
Nora. Here? No. notes! (Puts his arm round her waist.) That is so, isn’t it? Yes,
I am sure it is. (Lets her go.) We will say no more about it.
Helmer
elmer. That is strange. I saw Krogstad going out of the (Sits down by the stove.) How warm and snug it is here!
gate. (Turns over his papers.)

Nora
Nora. Did you? Oh yes, I forgot, Krogstad was here for a Nora (after a short pause, during which she busies herself
moment. with the Christmas Tree.) Torvald!

Helmer
elmer. Nora, I can see from your manner that he has been Helmer
elmer. Yes.
here begging you to say a good word for him.
Nora
Nora. I am looking forward tremendously to the fancy-dress
Nora
ora. Yes. ball at the Stenborgs’ the day after tomorrow.

Helmer
elmer. And you were to appear to do it of your own ac- Helmer
elmer. And I am tremendously curious to see what you are
cord; you were to conceal from me the fact of his having been going to surprise me with.
here; didn’t he beg that of you too?
Nora
Nora. It was very silly of me to want to do that.
Nora
ora. Yes, Torvald, but—
Helmer
elmer. What do you mean?
Helmer
elmer. Nora, Nora, and you would be a party to that sort
of thing? To have any talk with a man like that, and give him Nora
ora. I can’t hit upon anything that will do; everything I
any sort of promise? And to tell me a lie into the bargain? think of seems so silly and insignificant.
30
 Henrik Ibsen
Helmer
elmer. Does my little Nora acknowledge that at last? elmer. What is that? Tell me.
Helmer

Nora (standing behind his chair with her arms on the back of Nora
ora. There is no one has such good taste as you. And I do so
it). Are you very busy, Torvald? want to look nice at the fancy-dress ball. Torvald, couldn’t
you take me in hand and decide what I shall go as, and what
Helmer
elmer. Well— sort of a dress I shall wear?

Nora. What are all those papers? Helmer

elmer. Aha! so my obstinate little woman is obliged to get
someone to come to her rescue?
Helmer
elmer. Bank business.
Nora
ora. Yes, Torvald, I can’t get along a bit without your help.
Nora
Nora. Already?
Helmer
elmer. Very well, I will think it over, we shall manage to hit
Helmer
elmer. I have got authority from the retiring manager to upon something.
undertake the necessary changes in the staff and in the rear-
rangement of the work; and I must make use of the Christ- Nora
ora. That is nice of you. (Goes to the Christmas Tree. A short
mas week for that, so as to have everything in order for the pause.) How pretty the red flowers look—. But, tell me, was it
new year. really something very bad that this Krogstad was guilty of?

Nora
ora. Then that was why this poor Krogstad— Helmer
elmer. He forged someone’s name. Have you any idea what
that means?
Helmer
elmer. Hm!
Nora
ora. Isn’t it possible that he was driven to do it by necessity?
Nora (leans against the back of his chair and strokes his hair).
If you hadn’t been so busy I should have asked you a tremen- Helmer
elmer. Yes; or, as in so many cases, by imprudence. I am
dously big favour, Torvald. not so heartless as to condemn a man altogether because of a
single false step of that kind.
31
 A Doll’s House
Nora
ora. No, you wouldn’t, would you, Torvald? Helmer
elmer. My dear, I have often seen it in the course of my life
as a lawyer. Almost everyone who has gone to the bad early in
Helmer
elmer. Many a man has been able to retrieve his character, life has had a deceitful mother.
if he has openly confessed his fault and taken his punishment.
Nora
Nora. Why do you only say— mother?
Nora
Nora. Punishment—?
Helmer
elmer. It seems most commonly to be the mother’s influ-
Helmer
elmer. But Krogstad did nothing of that sort; he got him- ence, though naturally a bad father’s would have the same
self out of it by a cunning trick, and that is why he has gone result. Every lawyer is familiar with the fact. This Krogstad,
under altogether. now, has been persistently poisoning his own children with
lies and dissimulation; that is why I say he has lost all moral
Nora
Nora. But do you think it would—? character. (Holds out his hands to her.) That is why my sweet
little Nora must promise me not to plead his cause. Give me
Helmer
elmer. Just think how a guilty man like that has to lie and your hand on it. Come, come, what is this? Give me your
play the hypocrite with every one, how he has to wear a mask hand. There now, that’s settled. I assure you it would be quite
in the presence of those near and dear to him, even before his impossible for me to work with him; I literally feel physically
own wife and children. And about the children— that is the ill when I am in the company of such people.
most terrible part of it all, Nora.
Nora (takes her hand out of his and goes to the opposite side
Nora
Nora. How? of the Christmas Tree). How hot it is in here; and I have such
a lot to do.
Helmer
elmer. Because such an atmosphere of lies infects and poi-
sons the whole life of a home. Each breath the children take Helmer (getting up and putting his papers in order). Yes, and
in such a house is full of the germs of evil. I must try and read through some of these before dinner; and
I must think about your costume, too. And it is just possible
Nora (coming nearer him). Are you sure of that? I may have something ready in gold paper to hang up on the
Tree. (Puts his hand on her head.) My precious little singing-
32
 Henrik Ibsen
bird! (He goes into his room and shuts the door after him.) ACT II
Nora (after a pause, whispers). No, no—it isn’t true. It’s im-
THE SAME SCENE
(THE SCENE.—The Christmas Tree is in the cor-
possible; it must be impossible.
ner by the piano, stripped of its ornaments and with burnt-
down candle-ends on its dishevelled branches. NORA
NORA’S ’S cloak
(The NURSE opens the door on the left.)
and hat are lying on the sofa. She is alone in the room, walk-
ing about uneasily. She stops by the sofa and takes up her
Nurse
urse. The little ones are begging so hard to be allowed to
cloak.)
come in to mamma.
Nora (drops her cloak). Someone is coming now! (Goes to
Nora
ora. No, no, no! Don’t let them come in to me! You stay
the door and listens.) No—it is no one. Of course, no one
with them, Anne.
will come today, Christmas Day—nor tomorrow either. But,
perhaps—(opens the door and looks out). No, nothing in
Nurse
urse. Very well, ma’am. (Shuts the door.)
the letterbox; it is quite empty. (Comes forward.) What
rubbish! of course he can’t be in earnest about it. Such a
Nora (pale with terror). Deprave my little children? Poison
thing couldn’t happen; it is impossible—I have three little
my home? (A short pause. Then she tosses her head.) It’s not
children.
true. It can’t possibly be true.
(Enter the NURSE from the room on the left, carrying a big
cardboard box.)

Nurse
Nurse. At last I have found the box with the fancy dress.

Nora
ora. Thanks; put it on the table.

Nurse (doing so). But it is very much in want of mending.

33
 A Doll’s House
Nora. I should like to tear it into a hundred thousand pieces. Nora
Nora Nora. Do you think so? Do you think they would forget
their mother if she went away altogether?
Nurse
Nurse. What an idea! It can easily be put in order—just a
little patience. Nurse
Nurse. Good heavens!—went away altogether?

Nora
ora. Yes, I will go and get Mrs. Linde to come and help me Nora
Nora. Nurse, I want you to tell me something I have often
with it. wondered about—how could you have the heart to put your
own child out among strangers?
Nurse
urse. What, out again? In this horrible weather? You will
catch cold, ma’am, and make yourself ill. Nurse
urse. I was obliged to, if I wanted to be little Nora’s nurse.

Nora
ora. Well, worse than that might happen. How are the chil- Nora
ora. Yes, but how could you be willing to do it?
dren?
Nurse
Nurse. What, when I was going to get such a good place by
Nurse
urse. The poor little souls are playing with their Christmas it? A poor girl who has got into trouble should be glad to.
presents, but— Besides, that wicked man didn’t do a single thing for me.

Nora
Nora. Do they ask much for me? Nora
Nora. But I suppose your daughter has quite forgotten you.

Nurse
urse. You see, they are so accustomed to have their mamma Nurse
urse. No, indeed she hasn’t. She wrote to me when she was
with them. confirmed, and when she was married.

Nora
ora. Yes, but, nurse, I shall not be able to be so much with Nora (putting her arms round her neck). Dear old Anne, you
them now as I was before. were a good mother to me when I was little.

Nurse
Nurse. Oh well, young children easily get accustomed to anything. Nurse
urse. Little Nora, poor dear, had no other mother but me.
Nora. And if my little ones had no other mother, I am sure
34
 Henrik Ibsen
you would—What nonsense I am talking! (Opens the box.) sofa. Look here. Tomorrow evening there is to be a fancy-
Go in to them. Now I must—. You will see tomorrow how dress ball at the Stenborgs’, who live above us; and Torvald
charming I shall look. wants me to go as a Neapolitan fisher-girl, and dance the
Tarantella that I learned at Capri.
Nurse
Nurse. I am sure there will be no one at the ball so charming
as you, ma’am. (Goes into the room on the left.) Mrs. Linde
Linde. I see; you are going to keep up the character.

Nora (begins to unpack the box, but soon pushes it away Nora
ora. Yes, Torvald wants me to. Look, here is the dress;
from her). If only I dared go out. If only no one would come. Torvald had it made for me there, but now it is all so torn,
If only I could be sure nothing would happen here in the and I haven’t any idea—
meantime. Stuff and nonsense! No one will come. Only I
mustn’t think about it. I will brush my muff. What lovely, Mrs. Linde
Linde. We will easily put that right. It is only some of
lovely gloves! Out of my thoughts, out of my thoughts! One, the trimming come unsewn here and there. Needle and thread?
two, three, four, five, six—(Screams.) Ah! there is someone Now then, that’s all we want.
coming—. (Makes a movement towards the door, but stands
irresolute.) Nora
Nora. It is nice of you.

(Enter MRS. LINDE from the hall, where she has taken off Mrs. Linde (sewing). So you are going to be dressed up to-
her cloak and hat.) morrow Nora. I will tell you what—I shall come in for a
moment and see you in your fine feathers. But I have com-
Nora
ora. Oh, it’s you, Christine. There is no one else out there, pletely forgotten to thank you for a delightful evening yester-
is there? How good of you to come! day.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. I heard you were up asking for me. Nora (gets up, and crosses the stage). Well, I don’t think yes-
terday was as pleasant as usual. You ought to have come to
Nora
ora. Yes, I was passing by. As a matter of fact, it is some- town a little earlier, Christine. Certainly Torvald does under-
thing you could help me with. Let us sit down here on the stand how to make a house dainty and attractive.
35
 A Doll’s House
Linde. And so do you, it seems to me; you are not your Nora
Mrs. Linde Nora. Not in the least. What makes you think that?
father’s daughter for nothing. But tell me, is Doctor Rank
always as depressed as he was yesterday? Mrs. Linde
Linde. When you introduced him to me yesterday, he
declared he had often heard my name mentioned in this house;
Nora
Nora. No; yesterday it was very noticeable. I must tell you that but afterwards I noticed that your husband hadn’t the slightest
he suffers from a very dangerous disease. He has consumption idea who I was. So how could Doctor Rank—?
of the spine, poor creature. His father was a horrible man who
committed all sorts of excesses; and that is why his son was Nora ora. That is quite right, Christine. Torvald is so absurdly
sickly from childhood, do you understand? fond of me that he wants me absolutely to himself, as he says.
At first he used to seem almost jealous if I mentioned any of
Mrs. Linde (dropping her sewing). But, my dearest Nora, the dear folk at home, so naturally I gave up doing so. But I
how do you know anything about such things? often talk about such things with Doctor Rank, because he
likes hearing about them.
Nora (walking about). Pooh! When you have three children,
you get visits now and then from—from married women, Mrs. Linde Linde. Listen to me, Nora. You are still very like a child
who know something of medical matters, and they talk about in many things, and I am older than you in many ways and
one thing and another. have a little more experience. Let me tell you this—you ought
to make an end of it with Doctor Rank.
Mrs. Linde (goes on sewing. A short silence). Does Doctor
Rank come here everyday? Nora
Nora. What ought I to make an end of?

Nora
ora. Everyday regularly. He is Torvald’s most intimate Mrs. Linde
Linde. Of two things, I think. Yesterday you talked
friend, and a great friend of mine too. He is just like one of some nonsense about a rich admirer who was to leave you
the family. money—

Mrs. Linde
Linde. But tell me this—is he perfectly sincere? I mean, isn’t Nora
ora. An admirer who doesn’t exist, unfortunately! But what
he the kind of man that is very anxious to make himself agreeable? then?
36
 Henrik Ibsen
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Is Doctor Rank a man of means? then; he came into his money afterwards.

Nora
ora. Yes, he is. Mrs. Linde
Linde. Well, I think that was lucky for you, my dear
Nora.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. And has no one to provide for?
Nora
Nora. No, it would never have come into my head to ask
Nora
Nora. No, no one; but— Doctor Rank. Although I am quite sure that if I had asked
him—
Mrs. Linde
Linde. And comes here everyday?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. But of course you won’t.
Nora
ora. Yes, I told you so.
Nora
Nora. Of course not. I have no reason to think it could pos-
Mrs. Linde
Linde. But how can this well-bred man be so tactless? sibly be necessary. But I am quite sure that if I told Doctor
Rank—
Nora
ora. I don’t understand you at all.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Behind your husband’s back?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Don’t prevaricate, Nora. Do you suppose I don’t
guess who lent you the two hundred and fifty pounds? Nora
Nora. I must make an end of it with the other one, and that
will be behind his back too. I must make an end of it with
Nora
Nora. Are you out of your senses? How can you think of him.
such a thing! A friend of ours, who comes here everyday! Do
you realise what a horribly painful position that would be? Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, that is what I told you yesterday, but—

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Then it really isn’t he? Nora (walking up and down). A man can put a thing like
that straight much easier than a woman—
Nora
Nora. No, certainly not. It would never have entered into
my head for a moment. Besides, he had no money to lend Mrs. Linde
Linde. One’s husband, yes.
37
 A Doll’s House
Nora
Nora. Nonsense! (Standing still.) When you pay off a debt Torvald dear.
you get your bond back, don’t you?
Helmer
elmer. Was that the dressmaker?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, as a matter of course.
Nora
Nora. No, it was Christine; she is helping me to put my
Nora
Nora. And can tear it into a hundred thousand pieces, and dress in order. You will see I shall look quite smart.
burn it up—the nasty dirty paper!
Helmer
elmer. Wasn’t that a happy thought of mine, now?
Mrs. Linde (looks hard at her, lays down her sewing and gets
up slowly). Nora, you are concealing something from me. Nora
ora. Splendid! But don’t you think it is nice of me, too, to
do as you wish?
Nora
Nora. Do I look as if I were?
Helmer
elmer. Nice?—because you do as your husband wishes?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Something has happened to you since yesterday Well, well, you little rogue, I am sure you did not mean it in
morning. Nora, what is it? that way. But I am not going to disturb you; you will want to
be trying on your dress, I expect.
Nora (going nearer to her). Christine! (Listens.) Hush! there’s
Torvald come home. Do you mind going in to the children Nora Nora. I suppose you are going to work.
for the present? Torvald can’t bear to see dressmaking going
on. Let Anne help you. Helmer
elmer. Yes. (Shows her a bundle of papers.) Look at that. I
have just been into the bank. (Turns to go into his room.)
Mrs. Linde (gathering some of the things together). Cer-
tainly —but I am not going away from here until we have Nora ora. Torvald.
had it out with one another. (She goes into the room on the
left, as HELMER comes in from the hail.) Helmer
elmer. Yes.

Nora (going up to HELMER

HELMER). I have wanted you so much, Nora
Nora. If your little squirrel were to ask you for something
38
 Henrik Ibsen
very, very prettily—? tion again?

Helmer
elmer. What then? Nora
ora. Yes, dear, you must do as I ask; you must let Krogstad
keep his post in the bank.
Nora
ora. Would you do it?
Helmer
elmer. My dear Nora, it is his post that I have arranged
Helmer
elmer. I should like to hear what it is, first. Mrs. Linde shall have.

Nora
ora. Your squirrel would run about and do all her tricks if Nora
ora. Yes, you have been awfully kind about that; but you
you would be nice, and do what she wants. could just as well dismiss some other clerk instead of Krogstad.

Helmer
elmer. Speak plainly. Helmer
elmer. This is simply incredible obstinacy! Because you
chose to give him a thoughtless promise that you would speak
Nora
ora. Your skylark would chirp about in every room, with for him, I am expected to—
her song rising and falling—
Nora
ora. That isn’t the reason, Torvald. It is for your own sake.
Helmer
elmer. Well, my skylark does that anyhow. This fellow writes in the most scurrilous newspapers; you
have told me so yourself. He can do you an unspeakable
Nora
Nora. I would play the fairy and dance for you in the moon- amount of harm. I am frightened to death of him—
light, Torvald.
Helmer
elmer. Ah, I understand; it is recollections of the past that
Helmer
elmer. Nora—you surely don’t mean that request you made scare you.
to me this morning?
Nora
Nora. What do you mean?
Nora (going near him). Yes, Torvald, I beg you so earnestly—
Helmer
elmer. Naturally you are thinking of your father.
Helmer
elmer. Have you really the courage to open up that ques-
39
 A Doll’s House
Nora
ora. Yes—yes, of course. Just recall to your mind what these ridiculous before my whole staff, to let people think that I
malicious creatures wrote in the papers about papa, and how am a man to be swayed by all sorts of outside influence? I
horribly they slandered him. I believe they would have pro- should very soon feel the consequences of it, I can tell you!
cured his dismissal if the Department had not sent you over And besides, there is one thing that makes it quite impossible
to inquire into it, and if you had not been so kindly disposed for me to have Krogstad in the Bank as long as I am manager.
and helpful to him.
Nora
Nora. Whatever is that?
Helmer
elmer. My little Nora, there is an important difference be-
tween your father and me. Your father’s reputation as a public Helmerelmer. His moral failings I might perhaps have overlooked,
official was not above suspicion. Mine is, and I hope it will if necessary—
continue to be so, as long as I hold my office.
Nora
ora. Yes, you could—couldn’t you?
Nora
ora. You never can tell what mischief these men may con-
trive. We ought to be so well off, so snug and happy here in Helmer elmer. And I hear he is a good worker, too. But I knew
our peaceful home, and have no cares—you and I and the him when we were boys. It was one of those rash friendships
children, Torvald! That is why I beg you so earnestly— that so often prove an incubus in afterlife. I may as well tell
you plainly, we were once on very intimate terms with one
Helmer
elmer. And it is just by interceding for him that you make another. But this tactless fellow lays no restraint on himself
it impossible for me to keep him. It is already known at the when other people are present. On the contrary, he thinks it
Bank that I mean to dismiss Krogstad. Is it to get about now gives him the right to adopt a familiar tone with me, and
that the new manager has changed his mind at his wife’s bid- every minute it is “I say, Helmer, old fellow!” and that sort of
ding— thing. I assure you it is extremely painful for me. He would
make my position in the Bank intolerable.
Nora
Nora. And what if it did?
Nora
ora. Torvald, I don’t believe you mean that.
Helmer
elmer. Of course!—if only this obstinate little person can
get her way! Do you suppose I am going to make myself Helmer elmer. Don’t you? Why not?
40
 Henrik Ibsen
Nora
Nora. Because it is such a narrow-minded way of looking at Helmerelmer. Krogstad’s dismissal.
things.
Nora
ora. Call her back, Torvald! There is still time. Oh Torvald,
Helmer
elmer. What are you saying? Narrow-minded? Do you call her back! Do it for my sake—for your own sake—for the
think I am narrow-minded? children’s sake! Do you hear me, Torvald? Call her back! You
don’t know what that letter can bring upon us.
Nora
Nora. No, just the opposite, dear—and it is exactly for that
reason. Helmer
elmer. It’s too late.

Helmer
elmer. It’s the same thing. You say my point of view is Nora
ora. Yes, it’s too late.
narrow-minded, so I must be so too. Narrow-minded! Very
well—I must put an end to this. (Goes to the hall door and Helmer
elmer. My dear Nora, I can forgive the anxiety you are in,
calls.) Helen! although really it is an insult to me. It is, indeed. Isn’t it an
insult to think that I should be afraid of a starving quill-driver’s
Nora
Nora. What are you going to do? vengeance? But I forgive you nevertheless, because it is such
eloquent witness to your great love for me. (Takes her in his
Helmer (looking among his papers). Settle it. (Enter MAID
MAID.) arms.) And that is as it should be, my own darling Nora.
Look here; take this letter and go downstairs with it at once. Come what will, you may be sure I shall have both courage
Find a messenger and tell him to deliver it, and be quick. The and strength if they be needed. You will see I am man enough
address is on it, and here is the money. to take everything upon myself.

Maid
aid. Very well, sir. (Exit with the letter.) Nora (in a horror-stricken voice). What do you mean by that?

Helmer (putting his papers together). Now then, little Miss Helmer
elmer. Everything, I say—
Obstinate.
Nora (recovering herself ). You will never have to do that.
Nora (breathlessly). Torvald—what was that letter?
41
 A Doll’s House
elmer. That’s right. Well, we will share it, Nora, as man Nora (brings him in and shuts the door after him). Oh, you
Helmer
and wife should. That is how it shall be. (Caressing her.) Are know very well I always have time for you.
you content now? There! There!—not these frightened dove’s
eyes! The whole thing is only the wildest fancy!—Now, you Rank ank. Thank you. I shall make use of as much of it as I can.
must go and play through the Tarantella and practise with
your tambourine. I shall go into the inner office and shut the Nora Nora. What do you mean by that? As much of it as you can?
door, and I shall hear nothing; you can make as much noise as
you please. (Turns back at the door.) And when Rank comes, Rank Rank. Well, does that alarm you?
tell him where he will find me. (Nods to her, takes his papers
and goes into his room, and shuts the door after him.) Nora
Nora. It was such a strange way of putting it. Is anything
likely to happen?
Nora (bewildered with anxiety, stands as if rooted to the spot,
and whispers). He was capable of doing it. He will do it. He Rank Rank. Nothing but what I have long been prepared for. But
will do it in spite of everything.—No, not that! Never, never! I certainly didn’t expect it to happen so soon.
Anything rather than that I Oh, for some help, some way out
of it! (The door-bell rings.) Doctor Rank! Anything rather than Nora (gripping him by the arm). What have you found out?
that—anything, whatever it is! (She puts her hands over her Doctor Rank, you must tell me.
face, pulls herself together, goes to the door and opens it. RANK
is standing without, hanging up his coat. During the following Rank (sitting down by the stove). It is all up with me. And it
dialogue it begins to grow dark.) can’t be helped.

Nora
ora. Good day, Doctor Rank. I knew your ring. But you Nora (with a sigh of relief). Is it about yourself?
mustn’t go in to Torvald now; I think he is busy with some-
thing. Rank
Rank. Who else? It is no use lying to one’s self. I am the most
wretched of all my patients, Mrs. Helmer. Lately I have been
Rank
Rank. And you? taking stock of my internal economy. Bankrupt! Probably
within a month I shall lie rotting in the churchyard.
42
 Henrik Ibsen
Nora
Nora. What an ugly thing to say! something cheerful.

Rank
Rank. The thing itself is cursedly ugly, and the worst of it is Rank
Rank. Oh, it’s a mere laughing matter, the whole thing. My
that I shall have to face so much more that is ugly before that. poor innocent spine has to suffer for my father’s youthful
I shall only make one more examination of myself; when I amusements.
have done that, I shall know pretty certainly when it will be
that the horrors of dissolution will begin. There is something Nora (sitting at the table on the left). I suppose you mean
I want to tell you. Helmer’s refined nature gives him an un- that he was too partial to asparagus and pate de foie gras,
conquerable disgust at everything that is ugly; I won’t have don’t you?
him in my sick-room.
Rank
Rank. Yes, and to truffles.
Nora
Nora. Oh, but, Doctor Rank—
Nora
ora. Truffles, yes. And oysters too, I suppose?
Rank
Rank. I won’t have him there. Not on any account. I bar my
door to him. As soon as I am quite certain that the worst has Rank
Rank. Oysters, of course, that goes without saying.
come, I shall send you my card with a black cross on it, and
then you will know that the loathsome end has begun. Nora
Nora. And heaps of port and champagne. It is sad that all
these nice things should take their revenge on our bones.
Nora
ora. You are quite absurd today. And I wanted you so much
to be in a really good humour. Rank
Rank. Especially that they should revenge themselves on the
unlucky bones of those who have not had the satisfaction of
Rank
Rank. With death stalking beside me?—To have to pay this enjoying them.
penalty for another man’s sin? Is there any justice in that? And
in every single family, in one way or another, some such in- Nora
ora. Yes, that’s the saddest part of it all.
exorable retribution is being exacted—
Rank (with a searching look at her). Hm!—
Nora (putting her hands over her ears). Rubbish! Do talk of
43
 A Doll’s House
Nora (after a short pause). Why did you smile? Nora
ora. Oho!—you don’t mean to say you are jealous of poor
Christine?
Rank
Rank. No, it was you that laughed.
Rank
Rank. Yes, I am. She will be my successor in this house. When
Nora
Nora. No, it was you that smiled, Doctor Rank! I am done for, this woman will—

Rank (rising). You are a greater rascal than I thought. Nora

ora. Hush! don’t speak so loud. She is in that room.

Nora
ora. I am in a silly mood today. Rank
Rank. Today again. There, you see.

Rank
Rank. So it seems. Nora
Nora. She has only come to sew my dress for me. Bless my
soul, how unreasonable you are! (Sits down on the sofa.) Be
Nora (putting her hands on his shoulders). Dear, dear Doctor nice now, Doctor Rank, and tomorrow you will see how beau-
Rank, death mustn’t take you away from Torvald and me. tifully I shall dance, and you can imagine I am doing it all for
you—and for Torvald too, of course. (Takes various things
Rank
Rank. It is a loss you would easily recover from. Those who out of the box.) Doctor Rank, come and sit down here, and I
are gone are soon forgotten. will show you something.

Nora (looking at him anxiously). Do you believe that? Rank (sitting down). What is it?

Rank
Rank. People form new ties, and then— Nora
ora. Just look at those!

Nora
Nora. Who will form new ties? Rank
Rank. Silk stockings.

Rank
Rank. Both you and Helmer, when I am gone. You yourself Nora
ora. Flesh-coloured. Aren’t they lovely? It is so dark here
are already on the high road to it, I think. What did that Mrs. now, but tomorrow—. No, no, no! you must only look at
Linde want here last night? the feet. Oh well, you may have leave to look at the legs too.
44
 Henrik Ibsen
Rank
Rank. Hm!—Nora. Why are you looking so critical? Don’t Rank (as before). And not be able to leave behind one the
you think they will fit me? slightest token of one’s gratitude, scarcely even a fleeting re-
gret—nothing but an empty place which the first comer can
Rank
Rank. I have no means of forming an opinion about that. fill as well as any other.

Nora (looks at him for a moment). For shame! (Hits him Nora
Nora. And if I asked you now for a—? No!
lightly on the ear with the stockings.) That’s to punish you.
(Folds them up again.) Rank
Rank. For what?

Rank
Rank. And what other nice things am I to be allowed to see? Nora
ora. For a big proof of your friendship—

Nora
ora. Not a single thing more, for being so naughty. (She Rank
Rank. Yes, yes!
looks among the things, humming to herself.)
Nora
Nora. I mean a tremendously big favour—
Rank (after a short silence). When I am sitting here, talking
to you as intimately as this, I cannot imagine for a moment Rank
Rank. Would you really make me so happy for once?
what would have become of me if I had never come into this
house. Nora
ora. Ah, but you don’t know what it is yet.

Nora (smiling). I believe you do feel thoroughly at home Rank

Rank. No—but tell me.
with us.
ora. I really can’t, Doctor Rank. It is something out of all
Nora
Rank (in a lower voice, looking straight in front of him). reason; it means advice, and help, and a favour—
And to be obliged to leave it all—
Rank
Rank. The bigger a thing it is the better. I can’t conceive what
Nora
Nora. Nonsense, you are not going to leave it. it is you mean. Do tell me. Haven’t I your confidence?

45
 A Doll’s House
Nora. More than anyone else. I know you are my truest and Rank
Nora Rank. To have loved you as much as anyone else does? Was
best friend, and so I will tell you what it is. Well, Doctor that horrid?
Rank, it is something you must help me to prevent. You know
how devotedly, how inexpressibly deeply Torvald loves me; Nora ora. No, but to go and tell me so. There was really no
he would never for a moment hesitate to give his life for me. need—

Rank (leaning towards her). Nora—do you think he is the Rank

Rank. What do you mean? Did you know—? (MAID MAID enters
only one—? with lamp, puts it down on the table, and goes out.) Nora—
Mrs. Helmer—tell me, had you any idea of this?
Nora (with a slight start). The only one—?
Nora
ora. Oh, how do I know whether I had or whether I hadn’t?
Rank
Rank. The only one who would gladly give his life for your I really can’t tell you—To think you could be so clumsy,
sake. Doctor Rank! We were getting on so nicely.

Nora (sadly). Is that it? Rank

Rank. Well, at all events you know now that you can com-
mand me, body and soul. So won’t you speak out?
Rank
Rank. I was determined you should know it before I went
away, and there will never be a better opportunity than this. Nora (looking at him). After what happened?
Now you know it, Nora. And now you know, too, that you
can trust me as you would trust no one else. Rank
Rank. I beg you to let me know what it is.

Nora (rises, deliberately and quietly). Let me pass. Nora

ora. I can’t tell you anything now.

Rank (makes room for her to pass him, but sits still). Nora! Rank
Rank. Yes, yes. You mustn’t punish me in that way. Let me
have permission to do for you whatever a man may do.
Nora (at the hall door). Helen, bring in the lamp. (Goes over
to the stove.) Dear Doctor Rank, that was really horrid of you. Nora
ora. You can do nothing for me now. Besides, I really don’t
46
 Henrik Ibsen
need any help at all. You will find that the whole thing is I always thought it tremendous fun if I could steal down into
merely fancy on my part. It really is so—of course it is! (Sits the maids’ room, because they never moralised at all, and talked
down in the rocking-chair, and looks at him with a smile.) to each other about such entertaining things.
You are a nice sort of man, Doctor Rank!—don’t you feel
ashamed of yourself, now the lamp has come? Rank
Rank. I see—it is their place I have taken.

Rank
Rank. Not a bit. But perhaps I had better go—for ever? Nora (jumping up and going to him). Oh, dear, nice Doctor
Rank, I never meant that at all. But surely you can under-
Nora
Nora. No, indeed, you shall not. Of course you must come stand that being with Torvald is a little like being with papa—
here just as before. You know very well Torvald can’t do with- (Enter MAID from the hall.)
out you.
Maid
aid. If you please, ma’am. (Whispers and hands her a card.)
Rank
Rank. Yes, but you?
Nora (glancing at the card). Oh! (Puts it in her pocket.)
Nora
Nora. Oh, I am always tremendously pleased when you come.
Rank
Rank. Is there anything wrong?
Rank
Rank. It is just that, that put me on the wrong track. You are
a riddle to me. I have often thought that you would almost as Nora
Nora. No, no, not in the least. It is only something—it is
soon be in my company as in Helmer’s. my new dress—

Nora
ora. Yes—you see there are some people one loves best, and Rank
Rank. What? Your dress is lying there.
others whom one would almost always rather have as com-
panions. Nora
ora. Oh, yes, that one; but this is another. I ordered it.
Torvald mustn’t know about it—
Rank
Rank. Yes, there is something in that.
Rank
Rank. Oho! Then that was the great secret.
Nora
Nora. When I was at home, of course I loved papa best. But
47
 A Doll’s House
Nora
ora. Of course. Just go in to him; he is sitting in the inner in spite of me! No, no, no, it can’t happen—it shan’t happen!
room. Keep him as long as— (She bolts the door of HELMER’S room. The MAID opens
the hall door for KR OGST
KROGST
OGSTAD AD and shuts it after him. He is
Rank
Rank. Make your mind easy; I won’t let him escape. wearing a fur coat, high boots and a fur cap.)

(Goes into HELMER’S room.) Nora (advancing towards him). Speak low—my husband is
at home.
Nora (to the MAID
MAID). And he is standing waiting in the
kitchen? Krogstad
Krogstad. No matter about that.

Maid
aid. Yes; he came up the back stairs. Nora
Nora. What do you want of me?

Nora
ora. But didn’t you tell him no one was in? Krogstad
Krogstad. An explanation of something.

Maid
aid. Yes, but it was no good. Nora
Nora. Make haste then. What is it?

Nora
ora. He won’t go away? Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. You know, I suppose, that I have got my dismissal.

Maid
aid. No; he says he won’t until he has seen you, ma’am. Nora
ora. I couldn’t prevent it, Mr. Krogstad. I fought as hard as
I could on your side, but it was no good.
Nora
ora. Well, let him come in—but quietly. Helen, you mustn’t
say anything about it to anyone. It is a surprise for my hus- Krogstad
Krogstad. Does your husband love you so little, then? He
band. knows what I can expose you to, and yet he ventures—

Maid
aid. Yes, ma’am, I quite understand. (Exit.) Nora
Nora. How can you suppose that he has any knowledge of
the sort?
Nora
ora. This dreadful thing is going to happen! It will happen
48
 Henrik Ibsen
Kr ogstad
Krogstad Nora. No, of course not; I was sure of that.
ogstad. I didn’t suppose so at all. It would not be the least Nora
like our dear Torvald Helmer to show so much courage—
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. The whole thing can be arranged amicably; there
Nora
ora. Mr. Krogstad, a little respect for my husband, please. is no reason why anyone should know anything about it. It
will remain a secret between us three.
Krogstad
Krogstad. Certainly—all the respect he deserves. But since
you have kept the matter so carefully to yourself, I make bold Nora Nora. My husband must never get to know anything about it.
to suppose that you have a little clearer idea, than you had
yesterday, of what it actually is that you have done? Krogstad
Krogstad. How will you be able to prevent it? Am I to un-
derstand that you can pay the balance that is owing?
Nora
Nora. More than you could ever teach me.
Nora
Nora. No, not just at present.
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Yes, such a bad lawyer as I am.
Krogstad
Krogstad. Or perhaps that you have some expedient for rais-
Nora
Nora. What is it you want of me? ing the money soon?

Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Only to see how you were, Mrs. Helmer. I have Nora
Nora. No expedient that I mean to make use of.
been thinking about you all day long. A mere cashier, a quill-
driver, a—well, a man like me—even he has a little of what is Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Well, in any case, it would have been of no use to
called feeling, you know. you now. If you stood there with ever so much money in
your hand, I would never part with your bond.
Nora
Nora. Show it, then; think of my little children.
Nora
ora. Tell me what purpose you mean to put it to.
Krogstad
Krogstad. Have you and your husband thought of mine?
But never mind about that. I only wanted to tell you that Krogstad
Krogstad. I shall only preserve it—keep it in my possession.
you need not take this matter too seriously. In the first place No one who is not concerned in the matter shall have the
there will be no accusation made on my part. slightest hint of it. So that if the thought of it has driven you
49
 A Doll’s House
to any desperate resolution— Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Besides, it would have been a great piece of folly.
Once the first storm at home is over—. I have a letter for
Nora
Nora. It has. your husband in my pocket.

Krogstad
Krogstad. If you had it in your mind to run away from your Nora
ora. Telling him everything?
home—
Krogstad
Krogstad. In as lenient a manner as I possibly could.
Nora
Nora. I had.
Nora (quickly). He mustn’t get the letter. Tear it up. I will
Krogstad
Krogstad. Or even something worse— find some means of getting money.

Nora
Nora. How could you know that? Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Excuse me, Mrs. Helmer, but I think I told you
just now—
Krogstad
Krogstad. Give up the idea.
Nora
ora. I am not speaking of what I owe you. Tell me what
Nora
Nora. How did you know I had thought of that? sum you are asking my husband for, and I will get the money.

Krogstad
Krogstad. Most of us think of that at first. I did, too—but I Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. I am not asking your husband for a penny.
hadn’t the courage.
Nora
Nora. What do you want, then?
Nora (faintly). No more had I.
Krogstad
Krogstad. I will tell you. I want to rehabilitate myself, Mrs.
Krogstad (in a tone of relief ). No, that’s it, isn’t it—you
Krogstad Helmer; I want to get on; and in that your husband must help
hadn’t the courage either? me. For the last year and a half I have not had a hand in any-
thing dishonourable, amid all that time I have been struggling
Nora
ora. No, I haven’t—I haven’t. in most restricted circumstances. I was content to work my
way up step by step. Now I am turned out, and I am not going
50
 Henrik Ibsen
to be satisfied with merely being taken into favour again. I Nora ora. You can’t frighten me.
want to get on, I tell you. I want to get into the Bank again, in
a higher position. Your husband must make a place for me— Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Nor you me. People don’t do such things, Mrs.
Helmer. Besides, what use would it be? I should have him
Nora
ora. That he will never do! completely in my power all the same.

Krogstad
Krogstad. He will; I know him; he dare not protest. And as Nora
Nora. Afterwards? When I am no longer—
soon as I am in there again with him, then you will see!
Within a year I shall be the manager’s right hand. It will be Krogstad
Krogstad. Have you forgotten that it is I who have the keep-
Nils Krogstad and not Torvald Helmer who manages the NORA stands speechlessly looking
ing of your reputation? (NORA
Bank. at him.) Well, now, I have warned you. Do not do anything
foolish. When Helmer has had my letter, I shall expect a mes-
Nora
ora. That’s a thing you will never see! sage from him. And be sure you remember that it is your
husband himself who has forced me into such ways as this
Krogstad
Krogstad. Do you mean that you will—? again. I will never forgive him for that. Goodbye, Mrs. Helmer.
(Exit through the hall.)
Nora
ora. I have courage enough for it now.
Nora (goes to the hall door, opens it slightly and listens.) He
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Oh, you can’t frighten me. A fine, spoilt lady like is going. He is not putting the letter in the box. Oh no, no!
you— that’s impossible! (Opens the door by degrees.) What is that?
He is standing outside. He is not going downstairs. Is he hesi-
ora. You will see, you will see.
Nora tating? Can he—? (A letter drops into the box; then
KR OGST
KROGST AD’S footsteps are heard, until they die away as he
OGSTAD’S
Krogstad
Kr ogstad. Under the ice, perhaps? Down into the cold, coal-
ogstad goes downstairs. NORA utters a stifled cry, and runs across
black water? And then, in the spring, to float up to the sur- the room to the table by the sofa. A short pause.)
face, all horrible and unrecognisable, with your hair fallen
out— Nora
ora. In the letter-box. (Steals across to the hall door.) There
51
 A Doll’s House
it lies—Torvald, Torvald, there is no hope for us now! Nora
ora. You don’t know all. I forged a name.

Mrs. LINDE comes in from the room on the left, carrying

(Mrs. Mrs. Linde
Linde. Good heavens—!
the dress.)
Nora
Nora. I only want to say this to you, Christine—you must
Mrs. Linde
Linde. There, I can’t see anything more to mend now. be my witness.
Would you like to try it on—?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Your witness? What do you mean? What am I
Nora (in a hoarse whisper). Christine, come here. to—?

Mrs. Linde (throwing the dress down on the sofa). What is Nora
Nora. If I should go out of my mind—and it might easily
the matter with you? You look so agitated! happen—

Nora
ora. Come here. Do you see that letter? There, look—you Mrs. Linde
Linde. Nora!
can see it through the glass in the letter-box.
Nora
Nora. Or if anything else should happen to me—anything,
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, I see it. for instance, that might prevent my being here—

Nora
ora. That letter is from Krogstad. Mrs. Linde
Linde. Nora! Nora! you are quite out of your mind.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Nora—it was Krogstad who lent you the money! Nora
Nora. And if it should happen that there were some one who
wanted to take all the responsibility, all the blame, you un-
Nora
ora. Yes, and now Torvald will know all about it. derstand—

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Believe me, Nora, that’s the best thing for both Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, yes—but how can you suppose—?
of you.
Nora
ora. Then you must be my witness, that it is not true, Chris-
52
 Henrik Ibsen
tine. I am not out of my mind at all; I am in my right senses Helmer (calls from his room, knocking at the door). Nora!
now, and I tell you no one else has known anything about it; Nora (cries out anxiously). Oh, what’s that? What do you
I, and I alone, did the whole thing. Remember that. want?

Mrs. Linde
Linde. I will, indeed. But I don’t understand all this. Helmer
elmer. Don’t be so frightened. We are not coming in; you
have locked the door. Are you trying on your dress?
Nora
Nora. How should you understand it? A wonderful thing is
going to happen! Nora
ora. Yes, that’s it. I look so nice, Torvald.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. A wonderful thing? Mrs. Linde (who has read the card). I see he lives at the cor-
ner here.
Nora
ora. Yes, a wonderful thing!—But it is so terrible, Chris-
tine; it mustn’t happen, not for all the world. Nora
ora. Yes, but it’s no use. It is hopeless. The letter is lying
there in the box.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. I will go at once and see Krogstad.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. And your husband keeps the key?
Nora
ora. Don’t go to him; he will do you some harm.
Nora
ora. Yes, always.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. There was a time when he would gladly do any-
thing for my sake. Mrs. Linde
Linde. Krogstad must ask for his letter back unread, he
must find some pretence—
Nora
Nora. He?
Nora
ora. But it is just at this time that Torvald generally—
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Where does he live?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. You must delay him. Go in to him in the mean-
Nora
ora. How should I know—? Yes (feeling in her pocket), time. I will come back as soon as I can. (She goes out hur-
here is his card. But the letter, the letter—! riedly through the hall door.)
53
 A Doll’s House
Nora (goes to HELMER’S door, opens it and peeps in). Helmer elmer. Oh, we will soon work it up again.
Torvald!
Nora
ora. Yes, help me, Torvald. Promise that you will! I am so
Helmer (from the inner room). Well? May I venture at last nervous about it—all the people—. You must give yourself
to come into my own room again? Come along, Rank, now up to me entirely this evening. Not the tiniest bit of busi-
you will see—(Halting in the doorway.) But what is this? ness—you mustn’t even take a pen in your hand. Will you
promise, Torvald dear?
Nora
Nora. What is what, dear?
Helmer
elmer. I promise. This evening I will be wholly and abso-
Helmer
elmer. Rank led me to expect a splendid transformation. lutely at your service, you helpless little mortal. Ah, by the
way, first of all I will just— (Goes towards the hall door.)
Rank (in the doorway). I understood so, but evidently I was
mistaken. Nora
Nora. What are you going to do there?

Nora
ora. Yes, nobody is to have the chance of admiring me in Helmer
elmer. Only see if any letters have come.
my dress until tomorrow.
Nora
ora. No, no! don’t do that, Torvald!
Helmer
elmer. But, my dear Nora, you look so worn out. Have
you been practising too much? Helmer
elmer. Why not?

Nora
Nora. No, I have not practised at all. Nora
ora. Torvald, please don’t. There is nothing there.

Helmer
elmer. But you will need to— Helmer
elmer. Well, let me look. (Turns to go to the letter-box.
NORA
NORA, at the piano, plays the first bars of the Tarantella.
Nora
ora. Yes, indeed I shall, Torvald. But I can’t get on a bit HELMER stops in the doorway.) Aha!
without you to help me; I have absolutely forgotten the whole
thing. Nora
ora. I can’t dance tomorrow if I don’t practise with you.
54
 Henrik Ibsen
Helmer (going up to her). Are you really so afraid of it, dear? Nora (laughing and swinging the tambourine). Didn’t I tell
you so?
Nora
ora. Yes, so dreadfully afraid of it. Let me practise at once;
there is time now, before we go to dinner. Sit down and play Rank Rank. Let me play for her.
for me, Torvald dear; criticise me, and correct me as you play.
Helmer (getting up). Yes, do. I can correct her better then.
Helmer
elmer. With great pleasure, if you wish me to. (Sits down
at the piano.) RANK sits down at the piano and plays. NORA dances
(RANK
more and more wildly. HELMER has taken up a position
Nora (takes out of the box a tambourine and a long varie- beside the stove, and during her dance gives her frequent in-
gated shawl. She hastily drapes the shawl round her. Then she structions. She does not seem to hear him; her hair comes
springs to the front of the stage and calls out). Now play for down and falls over her shoulders; she pays no attention to it,
me! I am going to dance! but goes on dancing. Enter Mrs. LINDE
LINDE.)

HELMER plays and NORA dances. RANK stands by the

(HELMER Mrs. Linde (standing as if spell-bound in the doorway).
piano behind HELMER
HELMER, and looks on.) Oh!—

Helmer (as he plays). Slower, slower! Nora (as she dances). Such fun, Christine!

Nora
ora. I can’t do it any other way. Helmer
elmer. My dear darling Nora, you are dancing as if your
life depended on it.
Helmer
elmer. Not so violently, Nora!
Nora
Nora. So it does.
Nora
ora. This is the way.
Helmer
elmer. Stop, Rank; this is sheer madness. Stop, I tell you!
Helmer (stops playing). No, no—that is not a bit right. RANK stops playing, and NORA suddenly stands still.
(RANK
HELMER goes up to her.) I could never have believed it.
55
 A Doll’s House
You have forgotten everything I taught you. Helmer (taking her in his arms). The child shall have her
way. But tomorrow night, after you have danced—
Nora (throwing away the tambourine). There, you see.
Nora
ora. Then you will be free. (The MAID appears in the
Helmer
elmer. You will want a lot of coaching. doorway to the right.)

Nora
ora. Yes, you see how much I need it. You must coach me Maid
aid. Dinner is served, ma’am.
up to the last minute. Promise me that, Torvald!
Nora
ora. We will have champagne, Helen.
Helmer
elmer. You can depend on me.
Maid
aid. Very good, ma’am. [Exit.]
Nora
ora. You must not think of anything but me, either today
or tomorrow; you mustn’t open a single letter—not even open Helmer
elmer. Hullo!—are we going to have a banquet?
the letter-box—
Nora
ora. Yes, a champagne banquet until the small hours. (Calls
Helmer
elmer. Ah, you are still afraid of that fellow— out.) And a few macaroons, Helen—lots, just for once!

Nora
ora. Yes, indeed I am. Helmer
elmer. Come, come, don’t be so wild and nervous. Be my
own little skylark, as you used.
Helmer
elmer. Nora, I can tell from your looks that there is a letter
from him lying there. Nora
ora. Yes, dear, I will. But go in now and you too, Doctor
Rank. Christine, you must help me to do up my hair.
Nora
ora. I don’t know; I think there is; but you must not read
anything of that kind now. Nothing horrid must come be- Rank (whispers to HELMER as they go out). I suppose there
tween us until this is all over. is nothing—she is not expecting anything?

Rank (whispers to HELMER

HELMER). You mustn’t contradict her. Helmer
elmer. Far from it, my dear fellow; it is simply nothing
56
 Henrik Ibsen
more than this childish nervousness I was telling you of. (They Nora (going to him with her arms outstretched). Here she is!
go into the right-hand room.)

Nora
ora. Well!

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Gone out of town.

Nora
Nora. I could tell from your face.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. He is coming home tomorrow evening. I wrote
a note for him.

Nora
ora. You should have let it alone; you must prevent noth-
ing. After all, it is splendid to be waiting for a wonderful
thing to happen.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. What is it that you are waiting for?

Nora
ora. Oh, you wouldn’t understand. Go in to them, I will
Mrs. LINDE goes into the dining-room.
come in a moment. (Mrs.
NORA stands still for a little while, as if to compose herself.
Then she looks at her watch.) Five o’clock. Seven hours until
midnight; and then four-and-twenty hours until the next
midnight. Then the Tarantella will be over. Twenty-four and
seven? Thirty-one hours to live.

Helmer (from the doorway on the right). Where’s my little skylark?

57
 A Doll’s House
ACT III entrance to my rooms. Come in; we are quite alone. The
maid is asleep, and the Helmers are at the dance upstairs.
THE SAME SCENE
(THE SCENE.—The table has been placed in the
Krogstad (coming into the room). Are the Helmers really at
middle of the stage, with chairs around it. A lamp is burning
a dance tonight?
on the table. The door into the hall stands open. Dance mu-
sic is heard in the room above. Mrs. LINDE is sitting at the
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, why not?
table idly turning over the leaves of a book; she tries to read,
but does not seem able to collect her thoughts. Every now
Krogstad
Krogstad. Certainly—why not?
and then she listens intently for a sound at the outer door.)
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Now, Nils, let us have a talk.
Mrs. Linde (looking at her watch). Not yet—and the time
is nearly up. If only he does not—. (Listens again.) Ah, there
Krogstad
Krogstad. Can we two have anything to talk about?
he is. (Goes into the hall and opens the outer door carefully.
Light footsteps are heard on the stairs. She whispers.) Come
Mrs. Linde
Linde. We have a great deal to talk about.
in. There is no one here.
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. I shouldn’t have thought so.
Krogstad (in the doorway). I found a note from you at home.
What does this mean?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. No, you have never properly understood me.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. It is absolutely necessary that I should have a
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Was there anything else to understand except what
talk with you.
was obvious to all the world—a heartless woman jilts a man
when a more lucrative chance turns up?
Krogstad
Krogstad. Really? And is it absolutely necessary that it should
be here?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Do you believe I am as absolutely heartless as all
that? And do you believe that I did it with a light heart?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. It is impossible where I live; there is no private

58
 Henrik Ibsen
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Didn’t you? Mrs. Linde
Linde. But help may be near.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Nils, did you really think that? Krogstad
Krogstad. It was near; but then you came and stood in my
way.
Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. If it were as you say, why did you write to me as
you did at the time? Mrs. Linde
Linde. Unintentionally, Nils. It was only today that I
learned it was your place I was going to take in the Bank.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. I could do nothing else. As I had to break with you,
it was my duty also to put an end to all that you felt for me. Krogstad
Krogstad. I believe you, if you say so. But now that you
know it, are you not going to give it up to me?
Krogstad (wringing his hands). So that was it. And all this—
only for the sake of money! Mrs. Linde
Linde. No, because that would not benefit you in the
least.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. You must not forget that I had a helpless mother
and two little brothers. We couldn’t wait for you, Nils; your Krogstad
Krogstad. Oh, benefit, benefit—I would have done it whether
prospects seemed hopeless then. or no.

Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. That may be so, but you had no right to throw Mrs. Linde
Linde. I have learned to act prudently. Life, and hard,
me over for anyone else’s sake. bitter necessity have taught me that.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Indeed I don’t know. Many a time did I ask Krogstad
Krogstad. And life has taught me not to believe in fine
myself if I had the right to do it. speeches.

Krogstad (more gently). When I lost you, it was as if all the Mrs. Linde
Linde. Then life has taught you something very rea-
solid ground went from under my feet. Look at me now—I sonable. But deeds you must believe in?
am a shipwrecked man clinging to a bit of wreckage.
Krogstad
Krogstad. What do you mean by that?
59
 A Doll’s House
Linde. You said you were like a shipwrecked man cling- Mrs. Linde
Mrs. Linde Linde. I could not endure life without work. All my
ing to some wreckage. life, as long as I can remember, I have worked, and it has been
my greatest and only pleasure. But now I am quite alone in
Krogstad
Krogstad. I had good reason to say so. the world—my life is so dreadfully empty and I feel so for-
saken. There is not the least pleasure in working for one’s self.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Well, I am like a shipwrecked woman clinging Nils, give me someone and something to work for.
to some wreckage—no one to mourn for, no one to care for.
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. I don’t trust that. It is nothing but a woman’s over-
Krogstad
Krogstad. It was your own choice. strained sense of generosity that prompts you to make such
an offer of yourself.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. There was no other choice—then.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Have you ever noticed anything of the sort in
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Well, what now? me?

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Nils, how would it be if we two shipwrecked Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Could you really do it? Tell me—do you know all
people could join forces? about my past life?

Krogstad
Krogstad. What are you saying? Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Two on the same piece of wreckage would stand Krogstad
Krogstad. And do you know what they think of me here?
a better chance than each on their own.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. You seemed to me to imply that with me you
Krogstad
Krogstad. Christine I… might have been quite another man.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. What do you suppose brought me to town? Krogstad
Krogstad. I am certain of it.

Krogstad
Krogstad. Do you mean that you gave me a thought? Mrs. Linde
Linde. Is it too late now?
60
 Henrik Ibsen
Kr ogstad. Christine, are you saying this deliberately? Yes, I Mrs. Linde
ogstad
Krogstad Linde. I understand very well to what lengths a man
am sure you are. I see it in your face. Have you really the like you might be driven by despair.
courage, then—?
Krogstad
Krogstad. If I could only undo what I have done!
Mrs. Linde
Linde. I want to be a mother to someone, and your chil-
dren need a mother. We two need each other. Nils, I have faith in Mrs. Linde
Linde. You cannot. Your letter is lying in the letter-box
your real character—I can dare anything together with you. now.

Kr ogstad (grasps her hands). Thanks, thanks, Christine! Now

Krogstad Krogstad
Krogstad. Are you sure of that?
I shall find a way to clear myself in the eyes of the world. Ah,
but I forgot— Mrs. Linde
Linde. Quite sure, but—

Mrs. Linde (listening). Hush! The Tarantella! Go, go! Krogstad (with a searching look at her). Is that what it all
means?—that you want to save your friend at any cost? Tell
Krogstad
Krogstad. Why? What is it? me frankly. Is that it?

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Do you hear them up there? When that is over, Mrs. Linde
Linde. Nils, a woman who has once sold herself for
we may expect them back. another’s sake, doesn’t do it a second time.

Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Yes, yes—I will go. But it is all no use. Of course Krogstad
Krogstad. I will ask for my letter back.
you are not aware what steps I have taken in the matter of the
Helmers. Mrs. Linde
Linde. No, no.

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, I know all about that. Krogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Yes, of course I will. I will wait here until Helmer
comes; I will tell him he must give me my letter back—that it
Krogstad
Krogstad. And in spite of that have you the courage to—? only concerns my dismissal—that he is not to read it—

61
 A Doll’s House
Mrs. Linde
Linde. No, Nils, you must not recall your letter. ready). What a difference! what a difference! Someone to work
for and live for—a home to bring comfort into. That I will do,
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. But, tell me, wasn’t it for that very purpose that indeed. I wish they would be quick and come—(Listens.) Ah,
you asked me to meet you here? there they are now. I must put on my things. (Takes up her hat
and cloak. HELMER’S and NORA NORA’S ’S voices are heard out-
Linde. In my first moment of fright, it was. But twenty- side; a key is turned, and HELMER brings NORA almost by
Mrs. Linde
four hours have elapsed since then, and in that time I have force into the hall. She is in an Italian costume with a large
witnessed incredible things in this house. Helmer must know black shawl around her; he is in evening dress, and a black
all about it. This unhappy secret must be disclosed; they must domino which is flying open.)
have a complete understanding between them, which is im-
possible with all this concealment and falsehood going on. Nora (hanging back in the doorway, and struggling with him).
No, no, no!—don’t take me in. I want to go upstairs again; I
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. Very well, if you will take the responsibility. But don’t want to leave so early.
there is one thing I can do in any case, and I shall do it at once.
Helmer
elmer. But, my dearest Nora—
Mrs. Linde (listening). You must be quick and go! The dance
is over; we are not safe a moment longer. Nora
ora. Please, Torvald dear—please, please—only an hour
more.
Kr ogstad
Krogstad
ogstad. I will wait for you below.
Helmer
elmer. Not a single minute, my sweet Nora. You know
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, do. You must see me back to my door... that was our agreement. Come along into the room; you are
catching cold standing there. (He brings her gently into the
Krogstad. I have never had such an amazing piece of good room, in spite of her resistance.)
fortune in my life! (Goes out through the outer door. The
door between the room and the hall remains open.) Mrs. Linde
Linde. Good evening.

Mrs. Linde (tidying up the room and laying her hat and cloak Nora
Nora. Christine!
62
 Henrik Ibsen
Helmer
elmer. You here, so late, Mrs. Linde? although possibly the performance was a trifle too realistic—a
little more so, I mean, than was strictly compatible with the
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, you must excuse me; I was so anxious to see limitations of art. But never mind about that! The chief thing
Nora in her dress. is, she had made a success—she had made a tremendous suc-
cess. Do you think I was going to let her remain there after
Nora
Nora. Have you been sitting here waiting for me? that, and spoil the effect? No, indeed! I took my charming
little Capri maiden—my capricious little Capri maiden, I should
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, unfortunately I came too late, you had al- say—on my arm; took one quick turn round the room; a curt-
ready gone upstairs; and I thought I couldn’t go away again sey on either side, and, as they say in novels, the beautiful appa-
without having seen you. rition disappeared. An exit ought always to be effective, Mrs.
Linde; but that is what I cannot make Nora understand. Pooh!
Helmer (taking off NORA
NORA’S ’S shawl). Yes, take a good look this room is hot. (Throws his domino on a chair, and opens
at her. I think she is worth looking at. Isn’t she charming, the door of his room.) Hullo! it’s all dark in here. Oh, of
Mrs. Linde? course—excuse me—. (He goes in, and lights some candles.)

Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, indeed she is. Nora (in a hurried and breathless whisper). Well?

Helmer
elmer. Doesn’t she look remarkably pretty? Everyone Mrs. Linde (in a low voice). I have had a talk with him.
thought so at the dance. But she is terribly self-willed, this
sweet little person. What are we to do with her? You will Nora
ora. Yes, and—
hardly believe that I had almost to bring her away by force.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Nora, you must tell your husband all about it.
Nora
ora. Torvald, you will repent not having let me stay, even if
it were only for half an hour. Nora (in an expressionless voice). I knew it.

Helmer
elmer. Listen to her, Mrs. Linde! She had danced her Taran- Mrs. Linde
Linde. You have nothing to be afraid of as far as Krogstad
tella, and it had been a tremendous success, as it deserved— is concerned; but you must tell him.
63
 A Doll’s House
Nora
ora. I won’t tell him. with the right—like this—with a long, easy sweep. Do you
see?
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Then the letter will.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, perhaps—
Nora
ora. Thank you, Christine. Now I know what I must do.
Hush—! Helmer
elmer. But in the case of knitting—that can never be any-
thing but ungraceful; look here—the arms close together, the
Helmer (coming in again). Well, Mrs. Linde, have you ad- knitting-needles going up and down—it has a sort of Chi-
mired her? nese effect—. That was really excellent champagne they gave
us.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Yes, and now I will say goodnight.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Well,—goodnight, Nora, and don’t be self-willed
Helmer
elmer. What, already? Is this yours, this knitting? any more.

Mrs. Linde (taking it). Yes, thank you, I had very nearly Helmer
elmer. That’s right, Mrs. Linde.
forgotten it.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Goodnight, Mr. Helmer.
Helmer
elmer. So you knit?
Helmer (accompanying her to the door). Goodnight,
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Of course. goodnight. I hope you will get home all right. I should be
very happy to—but you haven’t any great distance to go.
Helmer
elmer. Do you know, you ought to embroider. Goodnight, goodnight. (She goes out; he shuts the door after
her, and comes in again.) Ah!—at last we have got rid of her.
Mrs. Linde
Linde. Really? Why? She is a frightful bore, that woman.

Helmer
elmer. Yes, it’s far more becoming. Let me show you. You Nora
ora. Aren’t you very tired, Torvald?
hold the embroidery thus in your left hand, and use the needle
64
 Henrik Ibsen
Helmer
elmer. No, not in the least. elmer. Why shouldn’t I look at my dearest treasure?—at all
Helmer
the beauty that is mine, all my very own?
Nora
Nora. Nor sleepy?
Nora (going to the other side of the table). You mustn’t say
Helmer
elmer. Not a bit. On the contrary, I feel extraordinarily things like that to me tonight.
lively. And you?—you really look both tired and sleepy.
Helmer (following her). You have still got the Tarantella in
Nora
ora. Yes, I am very tired. I want to go to sleep at once. your blood, I see. And it makes you more captivating than
ever. Listen—the guests are beginning to go now. (In a lower
Helmer
elmer. There, you see it was quite right of me not to let voice.) Nora—soon the whole house will be quiet.
you stay there any longer.
Nora
ora. Yes, I hope so.
Nora
ora. Everything you do is quite right, Torvald.
Helmer
elmer. Yes, my own darling Nora. Do you know, when I
Helmer (kissing her on the forehead). Now my little skylark am out at a party with you like this, why I speak so little to
is speaking reasonably. Did you notice what good spirits Rank you, keep away from you, and only send a stolen glance in
was in this evening? your direction now and then?—do you know why I do that?
It is because I make believe to myself that we are secretly in
Nora
ora. Really? Was he? I didn’t speak to him at all. love, and you are my secretly promised bride, and that no one
suspects there is anything between us.
Helmer
elmer. And I very little, but I have not for a long time seen
him in such good form. (Looks for a while at her and then Nora
ora. Yes, yes—I know very well your thoughts are with me
goes nearer to her.) It is delightful to be at home by ourselves all the time.
again, to be all alone with you—you fascinating, charming
little darling! Helmer
elmer. And when we are leaving, and I am putting the shawl
over your beautiful young shoulders—on your lovely neck—
Nora
ora. Don’t look at me like that, Torvald. then I imagine that you are my young bride and that we have
65
 A Doll’s House
just come from the wedding, and I am bringing you for the Helmer elmer. It seems to me that you looked after yourself pretty
first time into our home—to be alone with you for the first well upstairs too.
time—quite alone with my shy little darling! All this evening
I have longed for nothing but you. When I watched the se- Rank Rank. Excellently. Why shouldn’t I? Why shouldn’t one en-
ductive figures of the Tarantella, my blood was on fire; I could joy everything in this world?—at any rate as much as one can,
endure it no longer, and that was why I brought you down so and as long as one can. The wine was capital—
early—
Helmer
elmer. Especially the champagne.
Nora
ora. Go away, Torvald! You must let me go. I won’t—
Rank
Rank. So you noticed that too? It is almost incredible how
Helmer
elmer. What’s that? You’re joking, my little Nora! You much I managed to put away!
won’t—you won’t? Am I not your husband—? (A knock is
heard at the outer door.) Nora
ora. Torvald drank a great deal of champagne tonight too.

Nora (starting). Did you hear—? Rank

Rank. Did he?

Helmer (going into the hall). Who is it? Nora

ora. Yes, and he is always in such good spirits afterwards.

Rank (outside). It is I. May I come in for a moment? Rank

Rank. Well, why should one not enjoy a merry evening after
a well-spent day?
Helmer (in a fretful whisper). Oh, what does he want now?
(Aloud.) Wait a minute! (Unlocks the door.) Come, that’s Helmer
elmer. Well spent? I am afraid I can’t take credit for that.
kind of you not to pass by our door.
Rank (clapping him on the back). But I can, you know!
Rank
Rank. I thought I heard your voice, and felt as if I should like
to look in. (With a swift glance round.) Ah, yes!—these dear Nora
Nora. Doctor Rank, you must have been occupied with some
familiar rooms. You are very happy and cosy in here, you two. scientific investigation today.
66
 Henrik Ibsen
Rank
Rank. Exactly. Rank. Yes, if there is a fine lot of pretty costumes.
Rank

Helmer
elmer. Just listen!—little Nora talking about scientific in- Nora
ora. Tell me—what shall we two wear at the next?
vestigations!
Helmer
elmer. Little featherbrain!—are you thinking of the next
Nora
Nora. And may I congratulate you on the result? already?

Rank
Rank. Indeed you may. Rank
Rank. We two? Yes, I can tell you. You shall go as a good
fairy—
Nora
ora. Was it favourable, then?
Helmer
elmer. Yes, but what do you suggest as an appropriate cos-
Rank
Rank. The best possible, for both doctor and patient—cer- tume for that?
tainty.
Rank
Rank. Let your wife go dressed just as she is in everyday life.
Nora (quickly and searchingly). Certainty?
Helmer
elmer. That was really very prettily turned. But can’t you
Rank
Rank. Absolute certainty. So wasn’t I entitled to make a merry tell us what you will be?
evening of it after that?
Rank
Rank. Yes, my dear friend, I have quite made up my mind
Nora
ora. Yes, you certainly were, Doctor Rank. Helmer. I think about that.
so too, so long as you don’t have to pay for it in the morning.
Helmer
elmer. Well?
Rank
Rank. Oh well, one can’t have anything in this life without
paying for it. Rank
Rank. At the next fancy-dress ball I shall be invisible.

Nora
Nora. Doctor Rank—are you fond of fancy-dress balls? Helmer
elmer. That’s a good joke!

67
 A Doll’s House
Rank. There is a big black hat—have you never heard of hats Helmer (in a subdued voice). He has drunk more than he
Rank
that make you invisible? If you put one on, no one can see you. ought.

Helmer (suppressing a smile). Yes, you are quite right. Nora (absently). Maybe. (HELMER
HELMER takes a bunch of keys
out of his pocket and goes into the hall.) Torvald! what are
Rank
Rank. But I am clean forgetting what I came for. Helmer, you going to do there?
give me a cigar—one of the dark Havanas.
Helmer
elmer. Emptying the letter-box; it is quite full; there will
Helmer
elmer. With the greatest pleasure. (Offers him his case.) be no room to put the newspaper in tomorrow morning.

Rank (takes a cigar and cuts off the end). Thanks. Nora
Nora. Are you going to work tonight?

Nora (striking a match). Let me give you a light. Helmer

elmer. You know quite well I’m not. What is this? Some-
one has been at the lock.
Rank
Rank. Thank you. (She holds the match for him to light his
cigar.) And now goodbye! Nora
Nora. At the lock—?

Helmer
elmer. Goodbye, goodbye, dear old man! Helmer
elmer. Yes, someone has. What can it mean? I should never
have thought the maid—. Here is a broken hairpin. Nora, it
Nora
Nora. Sleep well, Doctor Rank. is one of yours.

Rank
Rank. Thank you for that wish. Nora (quickly). Then it must have been the children—

Nora
Nora. Wish me the same. Helmer
elmer. Then you must get them out of those ways. There,
at last I have got it open. (Takes out the contents of the letter-
Rank
Rank. You? Well, if you want me to sleep well! And thanks box, and calls to the kitchen.) Helen!—Helen, put out the
for the light. (He nods to them both and goes out.) light over the front door. (Goes back into the room and shuts
68
 Henrik Ibsen
elmer. My poor old friend! Certainly I knew we should
the door into the hall. He holds out his hand full of letters.) Helmer
Look at that—look what a heap of them there are. (Turning not have him very long with us. But so soon! And so he hides
them over.) What on earth is that? himself away like a wounded animal.

Nora (at the window). The letter—No! Torvald, no! Nora

Nora. If it has to happen, it is best it should be without a
word—don’t you think so, Torvald?
Helmer
elmer. Two cards—of Rank’s.
Helmer (walking up and down). He had so grown into our
Nora
ora. Of Doctor Rank’s? lives. I can’t think of him as having gone out of them. He,
with his sufferings and his loneliness, was like a cloudy back-
Helmer (looking at them). Doctor Rank. They were on the ground to our sunlit happiness. Well, perhaps it is best so.
top. He must have put them in when he went out. For him, anyway. (Standing still.) And perhaps for us too,
Nora. We two are thrown quite upon each other now. (Puts
Nora
Nora. Is there anything written on them? his arms round her.) My darling wife, I don’t feel as if I could
hold you tight enough. Do you know, Nora, I have often
Helmer
elmer. There is a black cross over the name. Look there— wished that you might be threatened by some great danger,
what an uncomfortable idea! It looks as if he were announc- so that I might risk my life’s blood, and everything, for your
ing his own death. sake.

Nora
Nora. It is just what he is doing. Nora (disengages herself, and says firmly and decidedly). Now
you must read your letters, Torvald.
Helmer
elmer. What? Do you know anything about it? Has he said
anything to you? Helmer
elmer. No, no; not tonight. I want to be with you, my
darling wife.
Nora
ora. Yes. He told me that when the cards came it would be
his leave-taking from us. He means to shut himself up and Nora
ora. With the thought of your friend’s death—
die.
69
 A Doll’s House
Helmer
elmer. You are right, it has affected us both. Something this letter?
ugly has come between us—the thought of the horrors of
death. We must try and rid our minds of that. Until then— Nora ora. Yes, I know. Let me go! Let me get out!
we will each go to our own room.
Helmer (holding her back). Where are you going?
N ora (hanging on his neck). Goodnight, Torvald—
Goodnight! Nora (trying to get free). You shan’t save me, Torvald!

Helmer (kissing her on the forehead). Goodnight, my little Helmer (reeling). True? Is this true, that I read here? Hor-
singing-bird. Sleep sound, Nora. Now I will read my letters rible! No, no—it is impossible that it can be true.
through. (He takes his letters and goes into his room, shut-
ting the door after him.) Nora
Nora. It is true. I have loved you above everything else in the
world.
Nora (gropes distractedly about, seizes HELMER’S domino,
throws it round her, while she says in quick, hoarse, spas- Helmer
elmer. Oh, don’t let us have any silly excuses.
modic whispers). Never to see him again. Never! Never! (Puts
her shawl over her head.) Never to see my children again ei- Nora (taking a step towards him). Torvald—!
ther—never again. Never! Never!—Ah! the icy, black water—
the unfathomable depths—If only it were over! He has got it Helmer
elmer. Miserable creature—what have you done?
now—now he is reading it. Goodbye, Torvald and my chil-
dren! (She is about to rush out through the hall, when Nora
ora. Let me go. You shall not suffer for my sake. You shall
HELMER opens his door hurriedly and stands with an open not take it upon yourself.
letter in his hand.)
Helmer
elmer. No tragic airs, please. (Locks the hall door.) Here
Helmer
elmer. Nora! you shall stay and give me an explanation. Do you under-
stand what you have done? Answer me! Do you understand
Nora
ora. Ah!—Helmer. What is this? Do you know what is in what you have done?
70
 Henrik Ibsen
Nora (looks steadily at him and says with a growing look of Helmer elmer. No fine speeches, please. Your father had always
coldness in her face). Yes, now I am beginning to understand plenty of those ready, too. What good would it be to me if
thoroughly. you were out of the way, as you say? Not the slightest. He can
make the affair known everywhere; and if he does, I may be
Helmer (walking about the room). What a horrible awaken- falsely suspected of having been a party to your criminal ac-
ing! All these eight years—she who was my joy and pride—a tion. Very likely people will think I was behind it all—that it
hypocrite, a liar—worse, worse—a criminal! The unutterable was I who prompted you! And I have to thank you for all
ugliness of it all!—For shame! For shame! (NORANORA is silent this—you whom I have cherished during the whole of our
and looks steadily at him. He stops in front of her.) I ought married life. Do you understand now what it is you have
to have suspected that something of the sort would happen. I done for me?
ought to have foreseen it. All your father’s want of principle—
be silent!—all your father’s want of principle has come out in Nora (coldly and quietly). Yes.
you. No religion, no morality, no sense of duty—. How I
am punished for having winked at what he did! I did it for Helmer elmer. It is so incredible that I can’t take it in. But we must
your sake, and this is how you repay me. come to some understanding. Take off that shawl. Take it
off, I tell you. I must try and appease him some way or an-
Nora
ora. Yes, that’s just it. other. The matter must be hushed up at any cost. And as for
you and me, it must appear as if everything between us were
Helmer
elmer. Now you have destroyed all my happiness. You have just as before— but naturally only in the eyes of the world.
ruined all my future. It is horrible to think of! I am in the You will still remain in my house, that is a matter of course.
power of an unscrupulous man; he can do what he likes with But I shall not allow you to bring up the children; I dare not
me, ask anything he likes of me, give me any orders he trust them to you. To think that I should be obliged to say so
pleases—I dare not refuse. And I must sink to such miserable to one whom I have loved so dearly, and whom I still—. No,
depths because of a thoughtless woman! that is all over. From this moment happiness is not the ques-
tion; all that concerns us is to save the remains, the fragments,
Nora
ora. When I am out of the way, you will be free. the appearance—

71
 A Doll’s House
(A ring is heard at the front-door bell.) repents—that a happy change in his life—never mind what
he says! We are saved, Nora! No one can do anything to you.
Helmer (with a start). What is that? So late! Can the worst—? Oh, Nora, Nora!—no, first I must destroy these hateful
Can he—? Hide yourself, Nora. Say you are ill. things. Let me see—. (Takes a look at the bond.) No, no, I
won’t look at it. The whole thing shall be nothing but a bad
NORA stands motionless. HELMER goes and unlocks the
(NORA dream to me. (Tears up the bond and both letters, throws
hall door.) them all into the stove, and watches them burn.) There—
now it doesn’t exist any longer. He says that since Christmas
Maid (half-dressed, comes to the door). A letter for the mis- Eve you—. These must have been three dreadful days for
tress. you, Nora.

Helmer
elmer. Give it to me. (Takes the letter, and shuts the door.) Nora
Nora. I have fought a hard fight these three days.
Yes, it is from him. You shall not have it; I will read it myself.
Helmer
elmer. And suffered agonies, and seen no way out but—. No,
Nora
ora. Yes, read it. we won’t call any of the horrors to mind. We will only shout
with joy, and keep saying, “It’s all over! It’s all over!” Listen to
Helmer (standing by the lamp). I scarcely have the courage to me, Nora. You don’t seem to realise that it is all over. What is
do it. It may mean ruin for both of us. No, I must know. this?—such a cold, set face! My poor little Nora, I quite un-
(Tears open the letter, runs his eye over a few lines, looks at a derstand; you don’t feel as if you could believe that I have
paper enclosed, and gives a shout of joy.) Nora! (She looks at forgiven you. But it is true, Nora, I swear it; I have forgiven
him questioningly.) Nora!—No, I must read it once again—. you everything. I know that what you did, you did out of
Yes, it is true! I am saved! Nora, I am saved! love for me.

Nora
Nora. And I? Nora
ora. That is true.

Helmer
elmer. You too, of course; we are both saved, both you and Helmer
elmer. You have loved me as a wife ought to love her hus-
I. Look, he sends you your bond back. He says he regrets and band. Only you had not sufficient knowledge to judge of the
72
 Henrik Ibsen
means you used. But do you suppose you are any the less dear everything will be just as it was before. Very soon you won’t
to me, because you don’t understand how to act on your own need me to assure you that I have forgiven you; you will your-
responsibility? No, no; only lean on me; I will advise you and self feel the certainty that I have done so. Can you suppose I
direct you. I should not be a man if this womanly helpless- should ever think of such a thing as repudiating you, or even
ness did not just give you a double attractiveness in my eyes. reproaching you? You have no idea what a true man’s heart is
You must not think anymore about the hard things I said in like, Nora. There is something so indescribably sweet and
my first moment of consternation, when I thought every- satisfying, to a man, in the knowledge that he has forgiven his
thing was going to overwhelm me. I have forgiven you, Nora; wife—forgiven her freely, and with all his heart. It seems as if
I swear to you I have forgiven you. that had made her, as it were, doubly his own; he has given
her a new life, so to speak; and she has in a way become both
Nora
ora. Thank you for your forgiveness. (She goes out through wife and child to him. So you shall be for me after this, my
the door to the right.) little scared, helpless darling. Have no anxiety about anything,
Nora; only be frank and open with me, and I will serve as will
Helmer
elmer. No, don’t go—. (Looks in.) What are you doing in and conscience both to you—. What is this? Not gone to
there? bed? Have you changed your things?

Nora (from within). Taking off my fancy dress. Nora (in everyday dress). Yes, Torvald, I have changed my
things now.
Helmer (standing at the open door). Yes, do. Try and calm
yourself, and make your mind easy again, my frightened little Helmer
elmer. But what for?—so late as this.
singing-bird. Be at rest, and feel secure; I have broad wings to
shelter you under. (Walks up and down by the door.) How Nora
Nora. I shall not sleep tonight.
warm and cosy our home is, Nora. Here is shelter for you;
here I will protect you like a hunted dove that I have saved Helmer
elmer. But, my dear Nora—
from a hawk’s claws; I will bring peace to your poor beating
heart. It will come, little by little, Nora, believe me. Tomor- Nora (looking at her watch). It is not so very late. Sit down
row morning you will look upon it all quite differently; soon here, Torvald. You and I have much to say to one another.
73
 A Doll’s House
(She sits down at one side of the table.) Nora
Nora. In all these eight years—longer than that—from the
very beginning of our acquaintance, we have never exchanged
Helmer
elmer. Nora—what is this?—this cold, set face? Nora. Sit a word on any serious subject.
down. It will take some time; I have a lot to talk over with
you. Helmer
elmer. Was it likely that I would be continually and forever
telling you about worries that you could not help me to bear?
Helmer (sits down at the opposite side of the table). You
alarm me, Nora!—and I don’t understand you. Nora
Nora. I am not speaking about business matters. I say that
we have never sat down in earnest together to try and get at
Nora
ora. No, that is just it. You don’t understand me, and I the bottom of anything.
have never understood you either—before tonight. No, you
mustn’t interrupt me. You must simply listen to what I say. Helmer elmer. But, dearest Nora, would it have been any good to
Torvald, this is a settling of accounts. you?

Helmer
elmer. What do you mean by that? Nora
ora. That is just it; you have never understood me. I have
been greatly wronged, Torvald—first by papa and then by
Nora (after a short silence). Isn’t there one thing that strikes you.
you as strange in our sitting here like this?
Helmer
elmer. What! By us two—by us two, who have loved you
Helmer
elmer. What is that? better than anyone else in the world?

ora. We have been married now eight years. Does it not

Nora Nora (shaking her head). You have never loved me. You have
occur to you that this is the first time we two, you and I, only thought it pleasant to be in love with me.
husband and wife, have had a serious conversation?
Helmer
elmer. Nora, what do I hear you saying?
Helmer
elmer. What do you mean by serious?
Nora
ora. It is perfectly true, Torvald. When I was at home with
74
 Henrik Ibsen
papa, he told me his opinion about everything, and so I had Nora ora. No, only merry. And you have always been so kind to
the same opinions; and if I differed from him I concealed the me. But our home has been nothing but a playroom. I have
fact, because he would not have liked it. He called me his been your doll-wife, just as at home I was papa’s doll-child;
doll-child, and he played with me just as I used to play with and here the children have been my dolls. I thought it great
my dolls. And when I came to live with you— fun when you played with me, just as they thought it great
fun when I played with them. That is what our marriage has
Helmer
elmer. What sort of an expression is that to use about our been, Torvald.
marriage?
Helmer
elmer. There is some truth in what you say—exaggerated
Nora (undisturbed). I mean that I was simply transferred from and strained as your view of it is. But for the future it shall be
papa’s hands into yours. You arranged everything according to different. Playtime shall be over, and lesson-time shall begin.
your own taste, and so I got the same tastes as your else I
pretended to, I am really not quite sure which—I think some- Nora ora. Whose lessons? Mine, or the children’s?
times the one and sometimes the other. When I look back on
it, it seems to me as if I had been living here like a poor Helmer elmer. Both yours and the children’s, my darling Nora.
woman—just from hand to mouth. I have existed merely to
perform tricks for you, Torvald. But you would have it so. Nora ora. Alas, Torvald, you are not the man to educate me into
You and papa have committed a great sin against me. It is being a proper wife for you.
your fault that I have made nothing of my life.
Helmer
elmer. And you can say that!
Helmer
elmer. How unreasonable and how ungrateful you are,
Nora! Have you not been happy here? Nora
Nora. And I—how am I fitted to bring up the children?

Nora
ora. No, I have never been happy. I thought I was, but it Helmer
elmer. Nora!
has never really been so.
Nora
ora. Didn’t you say so yourself a little while ago— that you
Helmer
elmer. Not—not happy! dare not trust me to bring them up?
75
 A Doll’s House
Helmer
elmer. In a moment of anger! Why do you pay any heed to Helmer elmer. What sort of madness is this!
that?
Nora
ora. Tomorrow I shall go home— I mean, to my old home.
Nora
Nora. Indeed, you were perfectly right. I am not fit for the It will be easiest for me to find something to do there.
task. There is another task I must undertake first. I must try
and educate myself—you are not the man to help me in that. Helmer elmer. You blind, foolish woman!
I must do that for myself. And that is why I am going to
leave you now. Nora
ora. I must try and get some sense, Torvald.

Helmer (springing up). What do you say? Helmer

elmer. To desert your home, your husband and your chil-
dren! And you don’t consider what people will say!
Nora
Nora. I must stand quite alone, if I am to understand myself
and everything about me. It is for that reason that I cannot Nora
Nora. I cannot consider that at all. I only know that it is
remain with you any longer. necessary for me.

Helmer
elmer. Nora, Nora! Helmer
elmer. It’s shocking. This is how you would neglect your
most sacred duties.
Nora
ora. I am going away from here now, at once. I am sure
Christine will take me in for the night— Nora
Nora. What do you consider my most sacred duties?

Helmer
elmer. You are out of your mind! I won’t allow it! I forbid Helmer
elmer. Do I need to tell you that? Are they not your duties
you! to your husband and your children?

Nora
ora. It is no use forbidding me anything any longer. I will Nora
Nora. I have other duties just as sacred.
take with me what belongs to myself. I will take nothing
from you, either now or later. Helmer
elmer. That you have not. What duties could those be?

76
 Henrik Ibsen
Nora
Nora. Duties to myself. elmer. This is unheard of in a girl of your age! But if reli-
Helmer
gion cannot lead you aright, let me try and awaken your con-
Helmer
elmer. Before all else, you are a wife and a mother. science. I suppose you have some moral sense? Or— answer
me— am I to think you have none?
Nora
ora. I don’t believe that any longer. I believe that before all
else I am a reasonable human being, just as you are— or, at all Nora ora. I assure you, Torvald, that is not an easy question to an-
events, that I must try and become one. I know quite well, swer. I really don’t know. The thing perplexes me altogether. I
Torvald, that most people would think you right, and that only know that you and I look at it in quite a different light. I
views of that kind are to be found in books; but I can no am learning, too, that the law is quite another thing from what I
longer content myself with what most people say, or with supposed; but I find it impossible to convince myself that the
what is found in books. I must think over things for myself law is right. According to it a woman has no right to spare her
and get to understand them. old dying father, or to save her husband’s life. I can’t believe that.

Helmer
elmer. Can you not understand your place in your own Helmer
elmer. You talk like a child. You don’t understand the con-
home? Have you not a reliable guide in such matters as that?— ditions of the world in which you live.
have you no religion?
Nora
ora. No, I don’t. But now I am going to try. I am going to
Nora
ora. I am afraid, Torvald, I do not exactly know what reli- see if I can make out who is right, the world or I.
gion is.
Helmer
elmer. You are ill, Nora; you are delirious; I almost think
Helmer
elmer. What are you saying? you are out of your mind.

Nora
Nora. I know nothing but what the clergyman said, when I Nora
Nora. I have never felt my mind so clear and certain as tonight.
went to be confirmed. He told us that religion was this, and
that, and the other. When I am away from all this, and am Helmer
elmer. And is it with a clear and certain mind that you
alone, I will look into that matter too. I will see if what the forsake your husband and your children?
clergyman said is true, or at all events if it is true for me.
77
 A Doll’s House
Nora
ora. Yes, it is. thought you were.

Helmer
elmer. Then there is only one possible explanation. Helmer
elmer. Explain yourself better. I don’t understand you.

Nora
Nora. What is that? Nora
ora. I have waited so patiently for eight years; for, goodness
knows, I knew very well that wonderful things don’t happen
Helmer
elmer. You do not love me anymore. every day. Then this horrible misfortune came upon me; and
then I felt quite certain that the wonderful thing was going to
Nora
Nora. No, that is just it. happen at last. When Krogstad’s letter was lying out there,
never for a moment did I imagine that you would consent to
Helmer
elmer. Nora!—and you can say that? accept this man’s conditions. I was so absolutely certain that
you would say to him: Publish the thing to the whole world.
Nora
ora. It gives me great pain, Torvald, for you have always And when that was done—
been so kind to me, but I cannot help it. I do not love you
any more. Helmer
elmer. Yes, what then?—when I had exposed my wife to
shame and disgrace?
Helmer (regaining his composure). Is that a clear and certain
conviction too? Nora
Nora. When that was done, I was so absolutely certain, you
would come forward and take everything upon yourself, and
Nora
ora. Yes, absolutely clear and certain. That is the reason say: I am the guilty one.
why I will not stay here any longer.
Helmer
elmer. Nora—!
Helmer
elmer. And can you tell me what I have done to forfeit
your love? Nora
ora. You mean that I would never have accepted such a
sacrifice on your part? No, of course not. But what would
Nora
ora. Yes, indeed I can. It was tonight, when the wonderful my assurances have been worth against yours? That was the
thing did not happen; then I saw you were not the man I had wonderful thing which I hoped for and feared; and it was to
78
 Henrik Ibsen
prevent that, that I wanted to kill myself. ora. As I am now, I am no wife for you.
Nora

Helmer
elmer. I would gladly work night and day for you, Nora— Helmer
elmer. I have it in me to become a different man.
bear sorrow and want for your sake. But no man would sac-
rifice his honour for the one he loves. Nora
ora. Perhaps— if your doll is taken away from you.

Nora
Nora. It is a thing hundreds of thousands of women have Helmer
elmer. But to part!—to part from you! No, no, Nora, I
done. can’t understand that idea.

Helmer
elmer. Oh, you think and talk like a heedless child. Nora (going out to the right). That makes it all the more
certain that it must be done. (She comes back with her cloak
Nora
Nora. Maybe. But you neither think nor talk like the man I and hat and a small bag which she puts on a chair by the
could bind myself to. As soon as your fear was over—and it table.)
was not fear for what threatened me, but for what might
happen to you—when the whole thing was past, as far as you Helmer
elmer. Nora, Nora, not now! Wait until tomorrow.
were concerned it was exactly as if nothing at all had hap-
pened. Exactly as before, I was your little skylark, your doll, Nora (putting on her cloak). I cannot spend the night in a
which you would in future treat with doubly gentle care, be- strange man’s room.
cause it was so brittle and fragile. (Getting up.) Torvald—it
was then it dawned upon me that for eight years I had been Helmer
elmer. But can’t we live here like brother and sister—?
living here with a strange man, and had borne him three chil-
dren—. Oh, I can’t bear to think of it! I could tear myself Nora (putting on her hat). You know very well that would
into little bits! not last long. (Puts the shawl round her.) Goodbye, Torvald.
I won’t see the little ones. I know they are in better hands
Helmer (sadly). I see, I see. An abyss has opened between than mine. As I am now, I can be of no use to them.
us—there is no denying it. But, Nora, would it not be pos-
sible to fill it up? Helmer
elmer. But some day, Nora— some day?
79
 A Doll’s House
Nora
Nora. How can I tell? I have no idea what is going to become NoraNora. I know I shall often think of you, the children, and
of me. this house.

Helmer
elmer. But you are my wife, whatever becomes of you. Helmer
elmer. May I write to you, Nora?

Nora
ora. Listen, Torvald. I have heard that when a wife deserts Nora
ora. No—never. You must not do that.
her husband’s house, as I am doing now, he is legally freed
from all obligations towards her. In any case, I set you free Helmer
elmer. But at least let me send you—
from all your obligations. You are not to feel yourself bound
in the slightest way, any more than I shall. There must be Nora
Nora. Nothing—nothing—
perfect freedom on both sides. See, here is your ring back.
Give me mine. Helmer
elmer. Let me help you if you are in want.

Helmer
elmer. That too? Nora
ora. No. I can receive nothing from a stranger.

Nora
ora. That too. Helmer
elmer. Nora—can I never be anything more than a stranger
to you?
Helmer
elmer. Here it is.
Nora (taking her bag). Ah, Torvald, the most wonderful thing
Nora
ora. That’s right. Now it is all over. I have put the keys of all would have to happen.
here. The maids know all about everything in the house—
better than I do. Tomorrow, after I have left her, Christine Helmer
elmer. Tell me what that would be!
will come here and pack up my own things that I brought
with me from home. I will have them sent after me. Nora
Nora. Both you and I would have to be so changed that—. Oh,
Torvald, I don’t believe any longer in wonderful things hap-
Helmer
elmer. All over! All over!—Nora, shall you never think of pening.
me again?
80
 Henrik Ibsen
Helmer
elmer. But I will believe in it. Tell me! So changed that—?

Nora
ora. That our life together would be a real wedlock.
Goodbye. (She goes out through the hall.)

Helmer (sinks down on a chair at the door and buries his face
in his hands). Nora! Nora! (Looks round, and rises.) Empty. To return to the
She is gone. (A hope flashes across his mind.) The most won- Electronic Classics Series site,
derful thing of all—?
go to
(The sound of a door shutting is heard from below.)

http://www2.hn.psu.edu/faculty/
jmanis/jimspdf.htm

To return to the Ibsen page, go to

http://www2.hn.psu.edu/faculty/
jmanis/h-ibsen.htm

81