1. What options seem to be open to women in this society? (look at Hedda, Thea, and Aunt Julia)

2. Define the key character traits for the major characters: Hedda, Tesman, Thea, Lovberg, Brack. Which traits do you admire, pity, condemn in them?

3. What does the manuscript symbolize for the major characters?

4. What other symbols besides the manuscript are evident in the play?

5. Look carefully at the detailed set description; what message is Ibsen trying to send via the set?

6. Compare the life decisions made by Hedda and Thea; do they parallel or contradict the women's characters?

7. Why is the play called Hedda Gabler, not Hedda Tesman?

8. How do each of the characters react to the others in the last scene of the play? How does this scene contribute to Hedda's last action?