Stage Two: Activated Complex, first series of events:

Soon after we are introduced to Nora in her docile stage, the overall tension in the family system increases as "the worst time [Nora has] known in all her marriage" occurs (1569).  Specifically, her strain originates from her illegal acquisition and payment of loans for the trip to Italy.  As a result, external factors increase the level of tension to achieve the activation of her energy, or the energy necessary for the reaction to occur;  this is directly relatable to the energy that must be put in, in order for all chemical reactions to occur.  A temporary activated complex forms, which we see in the fragmentation of Nora's world.  At this point (this action precedes the action of the play), Nora's devotion to Torvald competes with the independence she needs to finance a trip to ensure the recovery of his health.  Norah fears rejection from Torvald who advocates against "borrowing and debt" (1565) and starts keeping secrets from her husband.  She is no longer the obedient housewife and she begins to assert her own independence through small acts of defiance.  Examples include lying about eating macaroons and defending her father against Trovald when Torvald accuses him of being frivolous with money.  Furthermore, Nora enjoys earning money and describes it as "almost like being a man" (1525).  She gains some control over her situation, whereas there was little before.  Similar to an activated complex in chemistry, however, her character, in this state, has no clear, defined structure  It is partly composed of her self-assertion and partly her subjugation to the social norm.