A doll’s house citation mla – In the realm of literary classics, Henrik Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House” stands as a captivating masterpiece that has left an enduring legacy in the world of theater and literature. This comprehensive guide to the MLA citation for “A Doll’s House” provides a comprehensive overview of this groundbreaking play, delving into its historical context, significant characters, and enduring themes.

Through an engaging exploration of its social and historical backdrop, the role of gender and societal expectations, and the profound impact it has had on subsequent works of art, this guide offers a multifaceted understanding of Ibsen’s seminal work.

Introduction

Henrik Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House” is a groundbreaking play that revolutionized the theatre world in the 19th century. It explores the themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and personal identity.

The play’s significance lies in its portrayal of a woman who defies the traditional norms of her time. Nora Helmer, the protagonist, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and liberation, challenging the patriarchal society she lives in.

Overview of the Play

The play revolves around Nora, a seemingly perfect wife and mother, who secretly takes on debt to save her husband’s life. When her secret is revealed, her world falls apart as she faces societal judgment and her husband’s disapproval.

Nora’s journey forces her to confront the limitations placed on women in her society and to question the true nature of her relationship with her husband. The play culminates in Nora’s decision to leave her husband and home, in a powerful statement of female empowerment.

Context and Background

Written in the late 19th century, “A Doll’s House” reflects the social and historical context of that era. During this time, societal norms and expectations rigidly defined gender roles, particularly for women.

Women were largely confined to domestic spheres, expected to be subservient wives and mothers. Ibsen’s play challenges these societal expectations, examining the suffocating effects of gender inequality and the need for women’s liberation.

Gender and Societal Expectations

• Traditional Gender Roles:Women were expected to conform to prescribed roles as wives and mothers, prioritizing domestic duties and family over personal aspirations.
• Economic Dependence:Women had limited access to education and employment, making them financially dependent on their husbands.
• Legal Inequality:Laws and social customs favored men, denying women basic rights and freedoms, including the right to own property or vote.

Characters and Themes

The characters and themes in Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s Houseprovide a profound exploration of societal norms, gender roles, and the search for individual identity.

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Main Characters

The play revolves around three central characters:

• Nora Helmer:A young, vivacious woman who is initially portrayed as a frivolous and submissive housewife. As the play progresses, she undergoes a transformative journey, questioning her role in society and seeking independence.
• Torvald Helmer:Nora’s husband, a successful lawyer who views her as a possession rather than an equal. He is condescending and manipulative, reflecting the patriarchal norms of the time.
• Dr. Rank:A close friend of Torvald’s who is secretly in love with Nora. He represents the more sympathetic and progressive side of society, but his own health issues limit his ability to challenge societal norms.

Major Themes

A Doll’s Houseexplores several significant themes, including:

• Feminism:The play critiques the patriarchal society of the time, exposing the oppression and inequality faced by women. Nora’s journey towards self-discovery and independence becomes a symbol of the feminist struggle.
• Identity:Nora’s quest for identity is central to the play. She grapples with the societal expectations placed upon her and ultimately chooses to define herself on her own terms.
• The Search for Self:The characters in the play embark on a journey of self-discovery, seeking to understand their true nature and purpose in life. This theme is particularly evident in Nora’s transformation.

Plot and Structure

A Doll’s Housefollows the story of Nora Helmer, a seemingly content housewife living with her husband, Torvald, and their three children. The play’s events unfold over three acts, each marked by a turning point that gradually unravels Nora’s true nature and challenges societal norms.

Key Events and Turning Points

• Act 1:Nora secretly owes money to Krogstad, a moneylender, to pay for her husband’s medical expenses. Krogstad threatens to expose her secret if she doesn’t convince Torvald to keep him employed.
• Act 2:Nora’s friend, Mrs. Linde, arrives seeking her help in finding a job. Nora realizes that she has been living in a “doll’s house,” sheltered from the realities of life.
• Act 3:Krogstad sends Torvald a letter revealing Nora’s secret. Torvald confronts Nora, condemning her actions and refusing to forgive her.
• Climax:Nora realizes the true nature of her marriage and her own self-worth. She leaves Torvald and their children, determined to find her own identity and purpose.

Structure and Impact

A Doll’s Houseis structured in three acts, each building upon the previous one to create a powerful emotional impact. The play’s rising action establishes Nora’s seemingly perfect life, while the falling action reveals the cracks in her facade and her ultimate decision to leave.

The play’s structure also emphasizes the themes of societal expectations and individual freedom. The three acts represent the stages of Nora’s awakening: from her initial naivete to her realization of her own agency.

Symbolism and Imagery

Symbolism and imagery are essential elements in “A Doll’s House,” enriching its meaning and themes. Ibsen employs these literary devices to convey complex ideas and emotions, making the play more resonant and impactful.

The play’s title itself is symbolic, representing the constricting and artificial nature of the domestic sphere in which Nora lives. The doll’s house symbolizes Nora’s own existence, a carefully constructed facade that conceals her true self and aspirations.

Macaroons

The macaroons, which Nora secretly consumes, symbolize her hidden desires and her longing for independence. Her indulgence in the macaroons represents her defiance against the societal norms that restrict her.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Upon its initial publication in 1879, “A Doll’s House” sparked controversy and garnered a wide range of critical responses. Some critics praised Ibsen’s groundbreaking portrayal of female emancipation and his exploration of societal norms, while others condemned the play’s radical themes and its perceived attack on traditional family values.

Despite the initial backlash, “A Doll’s House” has become one of the most influential plays in Western literature. Its themes of gender equality, personal identity, and social responsibility continue to resonate with audiences today.

Influence on Subsequent Works

“A Doll’s House” has had a profound impact on subsequent works of literature and theater. It inspired a wave of feminist plays and novels that explored the experiences and perspectives of women in a male-dominated society. Playwrights such as George Bernard Shaw, August Strindberg, and Anton Chekhov were influenced by Ibsen’s groundbreaking work.

The play’s themes of personal growth and self-discovery have also resonated with writers and artists of all kinds. “A Doll’s House” continues to be adapted and reinterpreted in new ways, ensuring its relevance and impact for generations to come.

Adaptations and Performances

“A Doll’s House” has been adapted and performed numerous times since its initial debut, with notable interpretations shaping the play’s reception and relevance over the years. These adaptations have ranged from stage productions to film and television adaptations, each bringing unique perspectives and interpretations to Ibsen’s classic work.

Stage Productions, A doll’s house citation mla

Stage productions of “A Doll’s House” have been performed globally, with renowned actresses embodying the iconic role of Nora Helmer. Notable stage adaptations include the original 1879 production in Copenhagen, directed by Edvard Brandes, which set the standard for future performances.

In the 20th century, the play saw significant revivals, including the 1959 production at the Old Vic Theatre in London, starring Peggy Ashcroft, and the 1962 production at the Actors Studio Theatre in New York, directed by Elia Kazan. These productions brought fresh interpretations to the play, highlighting Nora’s strength and resilience in the face of societal expectations.

Film and Television Adaptations

“A Doll’s House” has also been adapted for film and television, reaching a wider audience and allowing for different cinematic interpretations. In 1973, Joseph Losey directed a critically acclaimed film adaptation starring Jane Fonda as Nora. This adaptation emphasized the play’s feminist themes and resonated with audiences during the rise of the women’s movement.

Other notable film adaptations include a 1992 version directed by Nora Ephron and starring Michelle Pfeiffer, and a 2017 adaptation directed by Rebecca Lenkiewicz and starring Michelle Williams. These adaptations have brought new perspectives to the play, exploring themes of gender roles, marriage, and self-discovery.

MLA Citation

When citing “A Doll’s House” by Henrik Ibsen, follow the Modern Language Association (MLA) style guidelines.

Citation Format

• Ibsen, Henrik. A Doll’s House. Translated by R. Farquharson Sharp. Samuel French, 1958. Print.

FAQ Overview: A Doll’s House Citation Mla

What is the correct MLA citation for “A Doll’s House” by Henrik Ibsen?

Ibsen, Henrik. “A Doll’s House.” Translated by Rolf Fjelde. Dover Publications, 2005.

What is the significance of “A Doll’s House” in literary history?

It is considered a groundbreaking work of feminist literature, challenging societal norms and exploring the complexities of gender roles and identity.