The play A Doll's House by Henrik Ibsen illustrates the main ideals of motherhood through the protagonist Nora Helmer, who desires independence separate from her style stifled life of the 19th century. Likewise, her decision to leave her husband and three young children is considered a very controversial and scandalous act during this period. Nora's crisis stems from her lack of a maternal figure during her childhood, her previous connotations of men, and ultimately her choice to abandon those close to her for an independence of her own. Throughout her childhood, Nora always lacked a mother figure. This is a key development in her crisis, as a mother figure is believed to provide the basis for healthy future relationships. Although Nora lived with her father, she was primarily raised by her nurse Anna Marie. Nora assures herself that just as Anna Marie raised her to become the woman she is today, she will raise her children the same way if Nora decides to leave them. NORA: Dear old Anna Marie, you were such a good mother to me when I was a little girl. NURSE: Well, my poor little Nora had no other mother than me. NORA: And if my little ones didn't have another mother, I'm sure you would – oh, what nonsense I'm talking. Come in and see them –. Now I have to do it – you will see tomorrow how beautiful I will look (55). This excerpt from Ibsen's play illustrates that Nora cares more about her beauty and appearance than playing and spending time with her children. It is evident that she is trying to distance herself from the beginning of the play as her mind is already certain of her impending departure from her family. The fact that Anna Marie raised Nora suggests that Nora finds it acceptable not to mother her...... middle of paper ......nt is obligated to be honest and have integrity, because the immorality of 'a parent transmits it to his or her children like illness. She sincerely believes that the nanny will be a better mother and that leaving her children is in their best interest. Nora's understanding of the meaning of freedom evolves throughout the play. In the first act, she believes that she will be completely “free” as soon as she has repaid her debt, because she will be able to devote herself fully to her domestic responsibilities. However, after Krogstad blackmails her, she reconsiders her concept of freedom and wonders if she is happy in Torvald's house, subject to his orders and edicts. At the end of the play, Nora seeks a new form of freedom. She wishes to be relieved of her family obligations in order to pursue her own ambitions, beliefs and identity..