Krogstad

(Pages; 169-176, 197-200, 207-211)

a) what role does Krogstad serve in the play?

b) In what ways does Ibsen develop the character, i.e. how does he change and what are the reasons?

c) What themes does Krogstad assist in conveying to the audience

Krogstad is created initially to play the "villain" in the play A Doll's House. In the first two scenes with him present, he comes across rude, aggressive and determined. He has caught wind that Torvald Helmer is firing him from his post at the Bank and comes to Nora to blackmail her into persuading Torvald to repress his decision. "...let me tell you that the thing that I once did that ruined my reputation was nothing more - and nothing worse - than that.", Krogstad believes that by intimidating Nora that Torvald will come to her rescue and inevitably his and agree to his terms and be able to stay posted at the Bank so he can continue to build up his reputation.

Nora came to Krogstad because she didn't know anyone else that had the means of getting a loan or who would be willing to help, however though Krogstad agreed to help and did find the money he did not make it easy on Nora "-the way you made difficulties although you knew how desperately ill my husband was" suggest that Krogstad had no sympathy towards Nora and partook in the deal solely for his own enjoyment.

The third scene he is in, is one between himself and Mrs Linde, who is revealed to be his old love, however Mrs Linde broke it off with him and married a richer man. This is the scene where the audience sees a completely different side to Krogstad than what has been portrayed previously. Nils Krogstad was devastated when Mrs Linde left him and he never completely understood the reasoning for it, "Was there anything to understand - except what was so obvious to the whole world: a heartless woman throwing a man over when someone richer turns up?". Mrs Linde wants Krogstad back in her life again and has learnt that money nor status can ever make you truly happy. This event forces Krogstad to change his perception on things and immediately regrets what he has done to the Helmer's wishing he could "undo it". Mrs Linde's love is what changes Krogstad from the "villain" of the play and forces the audience to rethink their initial opinions of the man.