The Weight of Moral Decisions in Henrik Ibsen's 'A Doll's House'

In Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House, there is nothing more important than reputation. In the 19th century Norway, reputation was a cultural norm that was praised beyond anything else. Men would spend their whole lives developing a well-recognized reputation, and will do almost anything to prevent it from falling down. As displayed in this play, men will clearly pick reputation over more important priorities such as marriage, which evidently is an unethical decision. Many decisions facing a moral dilemma will be biased towards benefiting themselves rather than aiding loved ones. Humans are born selfish, which is why they will prioritize themselves first, even if impending consequences are worse or inevitable.

Thesis: Henrik Ibsen criticizes the obsession of reputation and appearance of men through the display of Torvald's actions when facing a moral decision.

Undoubtedly the big message Ibsen is trying to convey is the preoccupation of Torvald and his own self-image. This is displayed through his occupation and work environment. By firing Krogstad and leaving no sign of regret or guilt, he establishes a message to others that describe him as a controlling and dominant figure. Not only does it strengthen his reputation, but having an employee that committed a serious crime would be detrimental to his future career. If his job gets jeopardized, his reputation will also be jeopardized. Hence, Torvald weighs the consequences for both situations to decide on the best decision that would least harm his reputation. Even though Nora urges him to keep Krogstad, he knows that keeping him would bring a risk in future committed crimes. His ignorance of Nora's urges demonstrates how he will not appear influenced by Nora or any of his colleagues ...

... middle of paper ...

...was to follow a cultural norm, and satisfy the American dream. Men were expected to get married to take care of the wife. Everyone is doing it, which is why Torvald feels as if he is expected to marry to blend into society.

In conclusion, Henrik Ibsen expresses his opinion of men being overly obsessed with their self-image and in particular their reputation. This is displayed through the actions of Torvald, in particular from the Tarantella dance, firing of Krogstad, and following societal norms such as marriage. He even blends into society so that others will not develop a suspicion in his decisions. Torvald's mind is fogged by a constant desire to improve and maintain a dominant self-image. Upon realization that prioritizing himself over Nora lead to his ultimate downfall, Nora leaves him. All Torvald was ever left with in the end was a guilty and regretful heart.