Misunderstood Man

The most intriguing person in A Doll’s House, is not the main character but Nils Krogstad a supporting character. In the first two acts of the play he is the despicable villain who threatens to destroy the Helmer household through the blackmail of Nora. However, in the final act he has a complete change of heart, and gives Nora back her IOU so she can destroy it and the primary conflict of the play is resolved. Why does Krogstad abruptly change and then is never again mentioned in the play? What is Krogstad’s true persona? Is he the despicable villain or a man whose intentions were misunderstood? Initially, there is no sign that Krogstad is anything but an unsavory character. Not only does he attempt to blackmail Nora Helmer in order to keep his job at the bank, but the audience later learns of his moral depravity, committing forgery and cleverly escaping any prosecution.

However, in the second act, the audience is introduced to a slightly different side of Krogstad when threatens Nora a second time. Krogstad actually feels a connection to Nora and pities her because of what she is going through. They both committed forgery, and although Nora did it to save her husband, they situations are still similar. In addition, they both have considered suicide to escape their problems. In this association with Nora the audience is allowed a brief glimpse of a very different person than the evil Krogstad.

Finally in the third Act we are once again shown another side of Krogstad a compassionate side. A declaration of love and trust by Kristine Linde is the catalyst of his change. She tells him, “we two need each other. Nils, I have faith in what, deep down, you are.” With these words, Nils Krogstad finds redemption and tells Kristine “I’ve never been so incredibly happy before.” As a result he sends Nora’s IOU to her husband and he brings the whole sordid affair to an end. Krogstad’s progression from villain to changed man is proof of the power of love.(345)