DH2.Questions+16-20

16. What does the reader learn about Nora as she and Krogstad converse?

As they converse, it is revealed that the money Nora had used to finance the holiday to Italy for her and Torvald was gained by borrowing a loan from Krogstad without her husband’s permission. It also reveals that she forged her fathers signature in order to get the money, she did this because she felt her father was too sick to sign it himself and that he most likely would not appreciate the fact the she would be borrowing money. There is a sense of anxiety and tenseness for Nora in the conversation.

17. What does his conversation with Nora reveal about Krogstad’s character? Why is this bit of exposition important now?

Krogstad is revealed to be vengeful, cunning, cynical, and even ruthless, yet caring for his family (which is his only redeeming factor). He is heard to drop a letter in Helmer’s mailbox (89) to seal the threat of making Helmer lose his position as the “manager’s right-hand man” (88) even as he threatens and taunts Nora with the revelation of her crime. He tries to justify himself by saying he does this to defend his motherless children and give them a good home. This conversation serves to reveal the unfriendly rivalry between Helmer and Krogstad, offering more information to the audience.

18. How does Krogstad intend to go about his rehabilitation? What is ironic about his plan?

19. What is Mrs. Linde’s plan regarding the letter?

Mrs. Linde goes over to Krogstad’s house to discuss the letter, however he has left town for one day so she leaves him a note regarding the letter and how they should meet up to discuss it. Mrs. Linde volunteers to talk to Krogstad because she confesses that she once had a relationship with him.

20. Why would she approach Krogstad to ask for a favor?

Mrs. Linde approached Krogstad because they were once in a relationship before she was married to Mr. Linde. The idea was hinted when she reveals to Nora that "there was a time when he would gladly have done anything for [her]".