Feminism

Another major theme of this novel is feminism. This is represented by Nora. She tries to break the oppressive bonds of marriage that Torvald holds on her. The play portrays Nora as a trapped soul who is oppressed by the customs of society during the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. This means that women were seen as the care takers, house cleaners, and subordinates. The men were seen as the breadwinners, holders of reputation, and face of a family. The novel shows the impact this era has on a woman’s life. It is a backlash against old customs that put women as subordinates to men.

This time period was the beginning of the feminist movements. The artifact I chose is a poem that represents the impact this movements had on the present day.

I am a female of the new times,
Which means I really haven't any clue.
Men may carry over some belongings,
But women will be altogether new.

Each of us will have to be a sculptor
Carving madly every stage of life.
Our models must be pure imagination
Dancing in the winds of daily strife.

I'm sure there will be much I will regret:
Freedom offers vast fields for mistakes.
But I will spend my time among the mountains
Bathing in the shock of icy lakes.

I know that I don't know what I will be,
And find that total ignorance inviting.
May many of my sisters come with me!
The journey will be painful and exciting.

            This poem shows the freedom that women gained through the feminist movements during this time. This can be compared to the freedom Nora felt after she told her husband that she was leaving. Torvald used to dictate Nora’s every move, but now she is on her own to decide her fate. Nora has no idea what she will do. It is just the thought that she has freedom that is guiding her every move. She can do whatever she desires with the impact of her father or husband. She is no longer a doll.