Act 3 Hedda Gabler
Discussion Topics
You will need to tab passages as well as respond in writing to the following questions.
1. From the very start of this act, the images of fire and burning become EXTREMELY
prevalent. Also, you should notice the light/darkness imagery as well. Tab the passages in this
act that relate to fire / burning and light/darkness and explain their significance. Explain in
writing what Ibsen is trying to do with them? In other words, what is their effect or
purpose on the play thus far?
2. Find and mark three of Hedda’s quotes from Act III that CLEARLY show how she is an evil,
cold-hearted wench. Explain in writing connections to previous examples of her character,
or lack thereof!
3. A universal theme is alluded to for the second time in the play. The first example of it can be
found on page 255 of Act 2. Tab the passage on p. 255. Find and tab a quote in this act that
pertains to it and write the universal theme.
4. The allusion to “vine leaves” is used repeatedly in this act, as well as in previous ones. Tab
its usage in this act and EXPLAIN in writing its significance, purpose, or effect on the play thus
far.
5. In this act, there is a subtle shift in power in one of the triangles. Tab quotes that illustrate
this shift and explain in writing the shift and its repercussions.
Act 3 Hedda Gabler
Discussion Topics
You will need to tab passages as well as respond in writing to the following questions.
1. From the very start of this act, the images of fire and burning become EXTREMELY
prevalent. Also, you should notice the light/darkness imagery as well. Tab the passages in this
act that relate to fire / burning and light/darkness and explain their significance. Explain in
writing what Ibsen is trying to do with them? In other words, what is their effect or
purpose on the play thus far?
2. Find and mark three of Hedda’s quotes from Act III that CLEARLY show how she is an evil,
cold-hearted wench. Explain in writing connections to previous examples of her character,
or lack thereof!
3. A universal theme is alluded to for the second time in the play. The first example of it can be
found on page 255 of Act 2. Tab the passage on p. 255. Find and tab a quote in this act that
pertains to it and write the universal theme.
4. The allusion to “vine leaves” is used repeatedly in this act, as well as in previous ones. Tab
its usage in this act and EXPLAIN in writing its significance, purpose, or effect on the play thus
far.
5. In this act, there is a subtle shift in power in one of the triangles. Tab quotes that illustrate
this shift and explain in writing the shift and its repercussions.