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 that.

Helmer: That's right. Well, we will share it, Nora, as man and wife should. That is how it shall be. [Caressing her.] Are you content now? There! There! Not these frightened dove's eyes! The whole thing is only the wildest fancy! Now, you must go and play through the Tarantella and practise with your tambourine. I shall go into the inner office and shut the door, and I shall hear nothing; you can make as much noise as you please. [Turns back at the door.] And when Rank comes, tell him where he will find me. [Nods to her, takes his papers and goes into his room, and shuts the door after him.]

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.”

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