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Dramatic Conventions A Dolls House Handout

The document outlines the dramatic conventions used in Henrik Ibsen's play *A Doll’s House*, emphasizing their role in exploring themes of gender roles, individual freedom, and societal expectations. Key conventions discussed include realism, three-act structure, subtext, and symbolism, each illustrated with specific examples from the play. Additionally, it provides insights on what to watch for and poses critical thinking questions to deepen understanding of the play's dramatic techniques.

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11 views2 pages

Dramatic Conventions A Dolls House Handout

The document outlines the dramatic conventions used in Henrik Ibsen's play *A Doll’s House*, emphasizing their role in exploring themes of gender roles, individual freedom, and societal expectations. Key conventions discussed include realism, three-act structure, subtext, and symbolism, each illustrated with specific examples from the play. Additionally, it provides insights on what to watch for and poses critical thinking questions to deepen understanding of the play's dramatic techniques.

Uploaded by

lal.twinkle
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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🎭 Grade 12 English – Dramatic

Conventions in *A Doll’s House*


📌 What are Dramatic Conventions?

Dramatic conventions are techniques playwrights use to present a story on stage. In *A


Doll’s House*, Henrik Ibsen uses these conventions to explore character, conflict, and
theme, particularly focusing on gender roles, individual freedom, and societal expectations.

🧩 Key Dramatic Conventions in *A Doll’s House*


Convention Definition How Ibsen Uses It in the
Play
Realism A truthful representation of Ibsen breaks from
everyday life. melodrama by showing
ordinary people and
domestic issues. Nora and
Torvald’s marriage feels
“real” and relatable.
Three-Act Structure Exposition → Rising Action Each act builds tension. Act
→ Climax → Resolution III is the turning point
where Nora decides to
leave.
Unity of Time and Space The action occurs in a The entire play takes place
continuous time frame and in the Helmers’ living room
a single location. over a few days, increasing
the intensity and intimacy.
Subtext The unspoken thoughts and Nora’s cheerful tone hides
motives behind what fear and desperation. Much
characters say. of the tension lies in what’s
not said.
Symbolism Objects or actions that The tarantella = Nora’s
suggest deeper meanings. struggle to distract Torvald;
the Christmas tree = Nora’s
emotional state.
Foreshadowing Hinting at events to come. Nora’s mention of
"something wonderful"
happening foreshadows her
disillusionment.
Stage Directions Instructions in the text that Ibsen uses detailed stage
describe movement, setting, directions to guide actors’
tone, etc. emotions and physical
gestures, e.g., "Nora [walks
restlessly]".
Character Entrances and Used to control dramatic Krogstad’s sudden
Exits tension. appearance adds suspense;
Nora’s final exit is iconic.
Dialogue and Monologue Characters’ conversations Nora’s final monologue
or solo speeches reveal asserts her independence
inner thoughts. and challenges 19th-
century gender norms.

🧠 What to Watch For in *A Doll’s House*


- Shifts in Power – How do dramatic pauses or silences reflect changes in control?
- Entrances/Exits – How does timing influence mood or tension?
- Symbolic Props – How do objects like the letterbox, keys, or the macaroons reflect themes?
- Naturalistic Setting – Why does Ibsen avoid spectacle or fantasy?

💡 Thinking Questions
1. Why did Ibsen choose realism over melodrama in this play?
2. How does the confined space (the Helmers’ living room) enhance the drama?
3. How do dramatic conventions help us understand Nora’s transformation?
4. What emotions are revealed through subtext in key scenes (e.g., the tarantella, the final
confrontation)?

✍️IB Exam Tip:


When writing about *A Doll’s House* in Paper 2, don’t just describe what happens—analyze
how dramatic conventions shape meaning. Use terms like foreshadowing, subtext, dramatic
irony, and connect them to themes and global issues (e.g., patriarchy, identity, moral
freedom).

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