Read the excerpt from act 3 of A Doll's House.
Helmer: Do you know, you ought to embroider.
Mrs. Linde: Really? Why?
Helmer: Yes, it's far more becoming. Let me show you. You hold the embroidery thus in your left hand, and use the needle with the right-like this-with a long, easy sweep. Do you see?
Mrs. Linde: Yes, perhaps―
Helmer: But in the case of knitting-that can never be anything but ungraceful; look here-the arms close together, the knitting-needles going up and down-it has a sort of Chinese effect-. That was really excellent champagne they gave us.
Mrs. Linde: Well,-goodnight, Nora, and don't be self-willed any more.
How does the conflict between Helmer's private and public selves develop the theme that appearances can be deceiving?
A. Helmer attempts to impress Mrs. Linde in a discreet way due to his hidden feelings for her.
B. Helmer tries to be polite to Mrs. Linde despite the hurt that he is feeling inside.
C. Helmer acts kindly toward Mrs. Linde while she is present, but insults her when she leaves.
D. Helmer rushes Mrs. Linde out the door due to his anxiety about being in social situations.
Answer (2)
In A Doll's House , Helmer's conflict between his public and private selves highlights the theme of deceptive appearances. His outward kindness hides deeper insecurities, and his concern for social appearances suggests a disparity between true feelings and external behavior. This dynamic reinforces the idea that society pressures individuals to present a facade instead of their authentic selves.
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Helmer's conflict between his public and private selves emphasizes that appearances can be deceptive in A Doll's House . His outward kindness to Mrs. Linde hides deeper anxieties and insecurities. This dynamic illustrates the theme of how societal expectations and personal facades can mask true emotions. ;
