Symbolism in "A Doll's House"

Paper Summary:

Henrik Ibsen's use of symbolism in the play, "A Doll's House," allows him to give a powerful portrayal of "humanist" rights. Symbolism is important because the elements of this play are highly symbolic. The paper includes background on the folk dance that has proven particularly effective in the play. The paper describes how Ibsen uses the Christmas tree, Nora's costume, and the Tarantella dance to symbolize Nora and Torvald's marriage.

From the Paper:

"The symbols used to describe Nora- the tree, dress, and dance- act as foreshadowing for Nora's ultimate revelation. Like the tree, once the pretty trimmings are removed from Nora and Torvald's marriage, there is little left of substance. The costume, purchased during a happy time, falls apart after only a few years. Finally, the dance meant to save the lives of those poisoned serves to reveal the poison that the marriage has become. Ibsen does not give the audience an answer as to the final outcome of the relationship. Perhaps Nora returns and the two build a relationship for the "right" reasons. Perhaps the marriage was so destroyed and poisoned that only ending it can save both characters."

More papers on Symbolism in "A Doll's House":

• Analytical Essay # 123206 : "Symbolism in 'A Doll's House'"
• Book Review # 104135 : "Literary Devices in "A Doll's House"
• Analytical Essay # 6509 : "A Doll's House"

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