Question

Which play can be described as presenting a new woman

• A. A Doll's House
• B. The School for Scandal
• C. The Tempest
• D. The Importance of Being Ernest

Answer 1

Answer:

A. A Doll's House

A Doll's House: A Landmark Play in Feminist Literature

Background and Context

• Author: Henrik Ibsen, a Norwegian playwright often called the 'father of modern realism'.
• Publication Year: 1879.
• Genre: Realism, Drama.
• Historical Significance: The play caused considerable controversy upon its release due to its critique of traditional marriage and gender roles. Many considered Nora's final exit a radical act.

The 'New Woman' Archetype

• Nora Helmer: The central character, Nora, is widely regarded as the embodiment of the 'New Woman' concept emerging in late 19th-century Europe.
• Characteristics of the 'New Woman': This archetype represented women who challenged societal norms, seeking independence, education, and self-fulfillment outside the confines of domesticity.
• Nora's Journey: Nora's character arc depicts her transformation from a seemingly frivolous 'doll' wife, existing solely to please her husband Torvald, to an individual demanding agency and self-discovery.
• Key Themes: The play explores themes of marital roles, female emancipation, societal hypocrisy, and the individual's search for identity.

Impact and Reception

• Realism in Theatre: Ibsen's naturalistic dialogue and focus on psychological depth were groundbreaking, moving theatre away from melodrama.
• Feminist Interpretations: Although Ibsen himself resisted being labeled a feminist, A Doll's House has become a cornerstone of feminist literary analysis and a powerful statement against patriarchal structures.
• The Ending: The play's famous ending, where Nora leaves her husband and children, was so shocking that an alternative ending was initially demanded and created for some German productions.

Competitive Exam Relevance

• Literary Movements: Understanding Ibsen's role in Realism and Naturalism is crucial.
• Character Analysis: Be prepared to analyze Nora's character development and her symbolic representation.
• Thematic Exploration: Questions often focus on the play's examination of gender roles, marriage, and societal expectations of the era.
• Influence: The play's enduring influence on subsequent literature and feminist thought is a common topic.