Monologue

Helmer Monologue from A Doll's House

From A Doll's House by Henrik Ibsen

male · comedic · 1:21 min

Rehearse this freeFind more monologues
Listen to her, Mrs Linde! She had danced her Tarantella, and it had been a tremendous success, as it deserved—although possibly the performance was a trifle too realistic—a little more so, I mean, than was strictly compatible with the limitations of art. But never mind about that! The chief thing is, she had made a success—she had made a tremendous success. Do you think I was going to let her remain there after that, and spoil the effect? No, indeed! I took my charming little Capri maiden—my capricious little Capri maiden, I should say—on my arm; took one quick turn round the room; a curtsey on either side, and, as they say in novels, the beautiful apparition disappeared. An exit ought always to be effective, Mrs Linde; but that is what I cannot make Nora understand. Pooh! this room is hot. Hullo! it’s all dark in here. Oh, of course—excuse me—.

About this piece

Helmer reflects on Nora's successful performance and expresses his views on the importance of a dramatic exit, revealing his controlling nature and the dynamics of their relationship.

30s · joy · identity · performance · freedom · power

Rehearse Helmer's monologue

Run it out loud with a spotlight that follows your voice, line by line, until it's off the page. Free to start, no credit card.

Rehearse freeStart rehearsing

More from A Doll's House

Every speech from A Doll's House, printed in full

Browse