Read the excerpt from act 2 of A Doll's House. Helmer. My dear Nora, I can forgive the anxiety you are
in, although really it is an insult to me. It is indeed.
Isn't it an insult to think that I should be afraid of a
starving quill-driver's vengeance? But I forgive you
nevertheless, because it is such eloquent witness to
your great love for me. (Takes her in his arms.) And that
is as it should be, my own darling Nora. Come what
will, you may be sure I shall have both courage and
strength if they be needed. You will see I am man
enough to take everything upon myself.
Nora: (in a horror-stricken voice). What do you mean
by that?
Helmer. Everything, I say-
Nora: (recovering herself] You will never have to do
What evidence from the text best supports the theme
that men are expected to be providers and protectors?
"But I forgive you nevertheless, because it is such
eloquent witness to your great love for me."
"You will see I am man enough to take everything
upon myself."
"Well, we will share it, Nora, as man and wife
should. That is how it shall be."
"Now, you must go and play through the Tarantella
and practice with your tambourine."