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A Doll's House

Yes--someday, perhaps, after many years,...

Overview

Character
Gender
Female
Playing Age
Adult
Style
Dramatic
Act/Scene
Act One
Time & Place
In the Helmers' Christmas sitting room, Nora confides in Christine while the household still appears bright and secure.
Length
Short
Time Period
Contemporary
Show Type
Play
Age Guidance
Youth (Y)/General Audiences (G)

Context

Text

Yes--someday, perhaps, after many years, when I am no longer as nice-looking as I am now. Don't laugh at me! I mean, of course, when Torvald is no longer as devoted to me as he is now; when my dancing and dressing-up and reciting have palled on him; then it may be a good thing to have something in reserve--[Breaking off.] What nonsense! That time will never come. Now, what do you think of my great secret, Christine? Do you still think I am of no use? I can tell you, too, that this affair has caused me a lot of worry. It has been by no means easy for me to meet my engagements punctually. I may tell you that there is something that is called, in business, quarterly interest, and another thing called payment in installments, and it is always so dreadfully difficult to manage them. I have had to save a little here and there, where I could, you understand. I have not been able to put aside much from my housekeeping money, for Torvald must have a good table. I couldn't let my children be shabbily dressed; I have felt obliged to use up all he gave me for them, the sweet little darlings!

Henrik Ibsen. A Doll’s House. Project Gutenberg EBook [December 13, 2008]; accessed February 23, 2017; https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2542/2542-h/2542-h.htm

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