For many years, women have struggled and fought for their right to vote. In 1920 women were granted this right, which meant that the government
             acknowledged their role as citizens in society. Before being legally declared
             citizens, many women had already begun to gain their independence and freedom by defying their roles society had created for them. No longer would they be the prisoner and their husbands the jailer. These were women who had a deep longing for an independent lifestyle and discarded responsibilities. Henrik
             Ibsen's, A Dolls House and Kate Chopin's, The Awakening are two examples of
             literature that portray characters that shed societies traditional roles.
             Nora being so dependent on her husband, Torvald is a reflection of
             the social tendencies at the time. When Nora needs assistance with her
             Christmas party costume, she says to Torvald, "I won't get anywhere without
             your help". Helmer just eats this up, and replies with, "You helpless little thing"(Act I pg 27). Helmer loves that she leans on him so much, and often calls her "the child". Helmer feels he has absolute say over her because he regards her as a possession, rather than a human being. The theme of a women's influence over her husband is shown in the novel. Nora holds a little power just because Torvald will actually listen to what she has to say, but this power is extremely limited. He only gives Kristine Linde a job at the bank to make Nora happy. When Krogstad hints that she has a greater influence on her husband's decisions, she is actually insulted. She has learned her limits, and doesn't in the least bit value her decision-making powers. Helmer's reasons for not keeping Krogstad are not based solely on the fact that he doesn't have a perfect past. Helmer is worried about what people will think of him if they know his wife influenced him. He say
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