Counting Down to Break. . .

TODAY IN CLASS
Reading check quiz over chapters 17-37. 
Short discussion of how Mademoiselle Reisz contributes to Edna's evolution.

FOR TOMORROW
Finish The Awakening (about 7-8 pages in most editions!).  But also re-read the ending of A Doll's House:
start with the point at which Helmer and Nora leave the party (8th ed. p. 1808).  Start with the italics, then a short converstion in the hall, and then they actually enter the apartment to find Mrs. Linde inside.  Read to the end of the play.

Why?  Focus on several elements:
Torvald's evident desire to leave the party early, and his frustration at finding company
The gist of the whispered conversation between Kristine and Nora
After Mrs. Linde leaves, pay attention to the 19th C. phraseology of the ensuing conversation.  What is the subtext?
Drat!  Thwarted again!!
So with Dr. Rank:  The "hidden in plain sight" conversation between Dr. Rank and Nora; the implication of the exchange of "wishes"
Nora's surprise at Helmer's reaction (or lack thereof) to Dr. Rank's situation
Nora's thoughts and emotions when Helmer goes to get the letter. What is she contemplating?  How does it tie in with what she had said to Dr. R.?
(Review briefly the part that you probably paid most attention to earlier:  Torvald's response to the first letter, and then his "Oh--never mind, it's all OK" shift to the second one.)
Pick up thoroughly again with Nora's response to THAT. 

Now--Consider the ending, what one critic called the "slammed door heard around the world."  What do you think her plan is?  Do you think this is the same plan she had in mind in the conversation with Dr. Rank?  If so, be able to justify.  If not, have a theory as to why/how she changed her mind.

And finally--Get back to the ending of The Awakening.  Consider the choices confronting both women, and the choice each one made.