DH2.Questions+6-10

6. When Helmer returns, what does Nora ask him to do?

7. What reason does Helmer give for saying Krogstad cannot return to the bank? Helmer claims that Krogstad is "morally ill" and a liar. Helmer continues to describe Krogstad to be an embarrassment that he cannot work with or trust. It insults and humiliates him that he and Krogstad are on a first-name basis because they went to school together. Such reasons continue to illustrate Helmer's petty nature, and he only is concerned with his status. When Nora confronts him and argues with his reasoning, he gets angry and sends off a letter dismissing Krogstad.

8. What danger does Nora say Krogstad poses to Helmer?

9. How does Helmer dismiss this notion, and what do we learn about the past? Helmer is relatively indifferent to Nora worrying that Krogstad might write articles that denounce Helmer, and is confident that he will be able to handle it, unlike Nora’s father who suffered heavily in a similar situation in the past. Helmer distinguishes himself from Nora’s father by stating that Helmer himself has a steady job and a firm reputation in the company. In addition, Helmer also reveals his relationships with Krogstad, as he says “[Krogstad] was a crony of mine back in my teens—one of those rash friendships that crop up again and again to embarrass you later in life.” (p.78)

10. What other reasons does Helmer give for refusing to rehire Krogstad?