Historical Context of A Doll's House
Norway in the 1870s: A Society in Transition
The historical backdrop of "A Doll's House" is crucial to understanding its revolutionary impact. Written in 1879, the play emerged during a period of significant social transformation in Norway and broader European society.
NoteThe play was written during the Victorian era, but in Norway, which had its own distinct social and cultural landscape different from Britain.
Social Structure and Gender Roles
The 1870s Norwegian society was characterized by:
- Rigid patriarchal structures
- Limited women's rights
- Strict social hierarchies
- Strong influence of the Lutheran Church
Women could not:
- Vote (until 1913 in Norway)
- Own property independently if married
- Take out loans without their husband's permission
- Have custody of their children in case of divorce
The Women's Rights Movement
Henrik Ibsen wrote "A Doll's House" during the early stages of the women's rights movement in Scandinavia. While he claimed not to be a feminist, his work became a cornerstone of feminist literature.
TipUnderstanding this context helps explain why Nora's decision to leave her family was so shocking to contemporary audiences.
Key Social Issues Reflected in the Play
- Marriage Dynamics
- The concept of marriage as a social contract
- Economic dependency of women on their husbands
- The facade of the "perfect" middle-class marriage
- Legal Status of Women
- Limited legal rights for married women
- The concept of women as property
- Banking and financial restrictions
