A Doll's House


Read by LibriVox Volunteers

(4.4 stars; 203 reviews)

A Doll's House is a groundbreaking play by Henrik Ibsen that challenges the conventions of 19th-century marriage and gender roles. At its center is Nora Helmer, a seemingly carefree wife who embarks on a journey of self-discovery that leads her to question the very foundations of her domestic life.

Set in a middle-class home, the play unfolds as Nora navigates her relationships with her husband, Torvald, and the societal expectations placed upon her. As secrets unravel and tensions rise, Ibsen's work confronts the limitations imposed on women, making it a pivotal piece in the discourse on feminism, despite the author’s own reservations about this label.

With its innovative structure, A Doll's House defies the traditional narrative arc, culminating in a powerful discussion rather than a conventional resolution. This play remains a vital exploration of identity, autonomy, and the quest for personal freedom, resonating with audiences across generations.

Chapters

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ACT I 59:04 Read by LibriVox Volunteers
ACT II 45:04 Read by LibriVox Volunteers
ACT III 47:03 Read by LibriVox Volunteers

Reviews

Great play, pretty good recording


(4 stars)

I usually can't listen to Librivox plays. There are no sound effects; the actors/readers are unauditioned, and often over- or underact; the stage directions are usually read aloud; it's hard to keep track of the characters based on the voices alone; and typically, all the voices are recorded separately and spliced together, which can have a jarring effect. But once I got over the initial distaste, I really enjoyed this recording. The actors/readers, though clearly amateurs, give low-key, expressive performances. The one who plays Nora is especially charming, and her occasional excesses seem appropriate to the character. The sound quality is good, and the audio editing strikes me as better than average. Overall the effect was midway between seeing the play performed and reading it.

well done production


(4 stars)

this was a better than usual recording for LibriVox, especially considering using a full cast. nearly everybody was good in their roles with the possible exception of the woman who played Christine who I found kind of flat. that aside the story was intriguing but it was lifted to a new height at the end by the relevations and self-relevations that drive the ending.

Made my life easier and more enjoyable


(5 stars)

Thank you so much for this resource. I work two jobs and I'm going to school. I needed to read this play for a European literature class and was able to listen to it in audiobook form while in my car. I found it to be a very enjoyable and efficient experience. I must say Dr. Rank was my favorite actor, I was enamored with his accent! 5 stars for Dr. Rank.


(3 stars)

I found the twists and turns fascinating. The depth of thought was captivating. I wanted to rate this more highly though a three star rating is intended to be very good. The atmosphere was rather depressing the whole way through and I suppose plays, however well they are read, are written primarily to be watched on stage. Thank you for all the effort made by the audio actors. You did a great job! Not an easy task.


(2.5 stars)

I actually wasn't fond of how the ending played out. I understand the issue & what she wants to do but wish it came out differently. Also, it's odd how thinking of suicide while in despair is quite dramatic for one character & is nonchalant regarding another. This play just didn't sit right with me.

A modern play


(4 stars)

All the volunteers did justice to the play, but Torvald's recording is not the same as others, its not that loud and clear. i wish it was. i like this play alot, its one of the first modern plays to come to English literature.

deep and moving


(5 stars)

This play was easy to listen to and follow and was well acted. I found it moving and it implored one to look deeply into what real relationship is and criticized the doting husband and pet wife scenario. I highly recommend this play!

I heard it fir the first time. A brilliant story that should be heard by all. Ir is about being authentic in relationships. About ethics. About facing misfortune headon. This play was most engaging. A magnificent work of literature.


(5 stars)