Hedda Gabler Essay

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Henrik Ibsen portrays a microcosm of nineteenth century Norwegian society in his play Hedda Gabler. Hedda, the protagonist, exhibits a mixture of masculine and feminine traits due to her unique upbringing under her father, General Gabler and the social mores imposed upon her. However, although this society venerates General Gabler because of his military status, his daughter Hedda is not tolerated due to her non-conformity to the accepted gender stereotypes. Hedda's gender-inverted marriage to Jorgan Tesman, her desire for power and her use of General Gabler's pistols are unacceptable in her society and a motif of “One doesn't do such a thing!”, alluded to during the play and expounded upon Hedda's death, shows that Hedda's uncertain stance between masculine and feminine gender roles and their associated traits is not tolerated by her society. Ibsen employs a reversal of traditional gender roles within Hedda and Jorgen Tesman's marriage to emphasises Hedda's masculine traits. Hedda displays no emotion or affection towards her husband Jorgen. This appearance of indifference is a trait that is usually common to men. For example, “ Tesman: ‘My old morning shoes. My slippers look!...I missed them dreadfully. Now you should see them Hedda.’ Hedda: ‘No thanks, it really doesn't interest me.’” In another gender role reversal, Hedda displays a financial awareness, which her husband, Jorgen does not posses. Although Brack talks with Tesman about his honeymoon travels, he talks with Hedda concerning the financial matters. This is a role that is usually reserved for men. Hedda does not only display traits, which are definitively masculine, or feminine, she also objects to and often defies the conventions established for her gender by society. She rejects references to her pregnancy as a reminder of her gender: Tesman - Have you noticed how plump (Hedda's) grown, and how
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