Act I
Ibsen gives a detailed description of the stage set. What mood is created by the use of color and light, and by the way in which the room is furnished? [Pay close attention to changes to color and light throughout the play.]
The stage set described by Ibsen creates a mood of elegance and sophistication, yet with an underlying sense of darkness or somberness. The use of dark colors and the description of the room as “decorated in dark colours” sets a somber tone, along with the “autumn foliage” visible through the “glass door”, suggests a melancholic atmosphere. The spaciousness and tasteful furnishings convey a sense of wealth and refinement, while the presence of bouquets and “sun shines in through the glass door” adds a touch of brightness. However, the overall impression is one of contrast between outward appearance and inner turmoil, foreshadowing the complexities of the characters' relationships and the conflicts that will unfold. As the play progresses, changes in lighting may further accentuate these contrasts, highlighting moments of tension or revelation amidst the elegant setting. |
Identify one example of dialogue from early in Act 1 (up until the exit of Miss Tesman) which establishes that Hedda belongs to a higher social class than the family into which she has married.
Hedda's attitude towards the sentimental value placed on Tesman's old slippers indicates her detachment from such domestic concerns, showing her higher social status. When Tesman expresses his excitement over finding his old slippers, which were embroidered by Aunt Rina, Hedda responds with disinterest, stating, "Thanks, I really don't care about it." This quote highlights Hedda's lack of sentimentality towards the family heirloom, contrasting with Tesman's emotional attachment to it. Hedda's dismissal of the slippers' sentimental value suggests her sense of superiority or detachment from the domestic concerns of the Tesman family, establishing her belonging to a higher social class. |
When Miss Tesman asks Tesman whether he has any “expectations,” to what is she referring? What does Tesman understand her to mean? What does his misunderstanding tell you about his character? What do his misunderstandings here suggest about his relationship with Hedda?
When Miss Tesman asks Tesman if he has any "expectations," she is referring to the possibility of him and Hedda having a child. However, Tesman misunderstands her question and instead responds by mentioning his academic aspirations, specifically his expectation of becoming a professor. This misunderstanding reveals Tesman's preoccupation with his scholarly pursuits and his lack of awareness or consideration of other aspects of married life, such as starting a family. It suggests that Tesman is somewhat oblivious to the emotional needs and desires of his wife, Hedda. His focus on his academic career over his marital duties hints at a disconnect between Tesman and Hedda, indicating that their relationship may lack intimacy and understanding. Tesman's misunderstanding highlights his self-centeredness and perhaps his inability to fully comprehend Hedda's desires and aspirations, contributing to the tension and dissatisfaction within their marriage. |
How does Hedda react to Tesman’s statement that she “has filled out on the journey”? What is significant about the dress that she is wearing? How does this contribute to your understanding of the relationship of Tesman and Hedda?
Hedda's reaction to Tesman's statement that she has "filled out on the journey" is dismissive and impatient. Her curt response, "Oh, do be quiet—!" suggests that she is irritated by Tesman's comment and does not appreciate being scrutinized in this manner. Additionally, the significance of the dress that Hedda is wearing lies in its ability to conceal any changes in her appearance. Tesman's remark about her "splendid condition" implies that Hedda may have gained weight during their travels, which she finds uncomfortable or undesirable. By wearing a dress that hides any physical changes, Hedda attempts to maintain a certain image and control over how she is perceived. This interaction contributes to the Tesman and Hedda's relationship by highlighting the lack of genuine communication and connection between them. |
What symbolic significance can you find in Hedda’s comment, “I am only looking at the leaves. They are so yellow – so withered”? What symbolic significance can you find in the earlier example of Hedda’s desire to block out the sunlight from the room?
Hedda's comment about the yellow and withered leaves holds symbolic significance, reflecting her own feelings of stagnation and disillusionment. The yellow and withered leaves represent the passage of time and the fading of vitality. Hedda's observation could be interpreted as a reflection of her own sense of dissatisfaction and disappointment of her life, trapped in a marriage and societal expectations that she finds stifling. Similarly, Hedda's desire to block out the sunlight from the room earlier in the play symbolizes her attempt to resist or evade the harsh realities of her existence. Sunlight symbolizes exposure, and by blocking it out, Hedda seeks to maintain a sense of control over her surroundings and shield herself from confronting uncomfortable truths or facing the consequences of her actions. Both instances reveal Hedda's internal turmoil and her ambition for a agency and autonomy in a world that feels oppressive and suffocating to her. |
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