Portrayal of men

Torvald

Krogstad

Occupation

Role in household

Reputation

Role in society

Backstory

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Typical "man" stereotype at the time. Main breadwinner, has wife and kids (though has a dislike for them).

Cares about his reputation greatly as referenced when Nora tried to persuade him to let Krogstad keep his job.

High-paying job as bank manager.

Dream to be able to earn so much money and have security

Feels more important than everyone else in the house hold since he is the breadwinner. Demands things of Nora even if she does not want to do them (Afterparty scene, household rules; no sweets)

Held a job at the bank before being fired by Torvald

Also fired Krogstad partly due to how casual Krogstad would treat him due to being childhood friends.
Did not want other subordinates to take it as a sign of weakness

Without job, is unable to fulfil role of "men" in society as breadwinner and provide for family

Was supposed to marry Mrs Linde but was left for another man with more financial security

Shows why and how money is so important in this time period and why Krogstad is so desperate for financial security. Quite literally the main purpose of "men" is to provide for their family

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Relationship to THT

In the Present

Even despite money playing such an important role in society, Mrs Linde still decides to stick with the now jobless Krogstad. Perhaps showing how after breaking out of society's restraints, one can finally pursue what they truly desire

Even after fulfilling the role of an ideal man in the household, it does not mean Torvald is infallible. He still owed his life to Nora for taking out a loan, something he was too stubborn to do. Still treats Nora like a child and expects her to obey him

Similar role played by the Commander

Head of the household, holds most of the power

Similarly views women as inferior and did not think much of Offred. As evidenced by being surprised at the Scrabble game and at Offred manipulating him till the end of the book

Abuses his power to an extent; asking for a kiss, bringing Offred as a sort of trophy