1. Why does Torvald make such a decisive show of mailing the letter firing Krogstad

against Nora’s pleas? What is unusual about Nora’s comment to Torvald about

pettiness? Do you agree with Nora that Torvald’s reasons for firing Krogstad are “petty”?

Why or why not?

2. Dr. Rank has inherited a fatal illness from his father. Bitterly, he tells Nora that “in every

single family, in one way or another, the same merciless law of retribution is at work.” In

what way is retribution for past deeds at work in the Helmer family?

3. Near the end of Act 2, Nora believes that a “miracle” will happen. What is the miracle

that she hopes for?

4. Foreshadowing is the use of clues to hint at what is going to happen later in the plot.

What do you anticipate will happen?

5. How do Nora and Krogstad’s views of Torvald differ? Whose opinion of Torvald are you

inclined to support at this point in the play?

6. When Nora sees the box of masquerade clothes, she wants to “rip them in a million

pieces!” What does Ibsen symbolize with this characterization?

Group 4:

7. After Dr Rank professes his love, Nora demands that the lamp be brought in. Why? Is

this real light or artificial? What might Ibsen be suggesting about truth and light in the

Helmers’ household?

8. What parallel is established between Dr. Rank and Nora in this act?

9. What role does Mrs. Linde play in this act?

10. Some histories of the Tarantella dance explain that it is used to fight off the venomous

effects of a spider bite. Other interpretations suggest it represents a woman’s

frustrations in oppression. Which of these explanations best fits Nora’s violent practice

at the end of Act 2? Might both apply? Explain.

11. What visual effects are used in Act II? (begin by commenting on the opening description of the stage, look at other stage directions)

12. What is the significance of each of these objects in Act 2: the Christmas tree, the stockings, the lamp, Nora’s costume, the letter?