Stage One Reactants:
In reaction kinetics, all reactants have an inherent, initial amount of energy, due to the atomic interactions between substances. Similarly, there exists an initial state of tension (energy) in Nora's relationship with Torvald. It is a relationship whose energy flows from a dynamic of dependence and domination and on a foundation of mistrust and character conflict. Torvald trivializes Nora, calling her his "lark" and his "squirrel" (Bedford 5th Edition, 1565). He indicates his possessiveness and superiority in their relationship by his repeated use of "my" when he refers to Nora; this relegates her to property status. Torvald, who is the archetypical Victorian man, confines Nora to the family unit, performing the duties of a static, obedient housewife who complements his domineering masculinity. At the onset of the play's action, however, Nora chooses to ignore her restrictions and even embrace her inferior position: she arranges to his taste and lives by doing tricks for [Torvald] (1608). She has become the obedient housewife that Torvald expects her to be.