This week has been dedicated to research, research, and more research. To start my process, I began by writing out everything that I knew or thought about the play already, having already dedicated a month to this play before this. I wanted to get all my initial thoughts and feelings out about the play before taking a deeper dive into the details of it all. I, then, learned more about the play itself, including why Ibsen wrote it in the first place. I learned that this story was based off a real person, and a close friend of Ibsen. Laura Kieler was Ibsen’s muse for Nora, as she, in an attempt to help her husband get medical aid for his illness, forged a signature on a loan. Unlike Nora, however, she did not chose to leave her husband. Instead, her husband divorced her and she was committed to an asylum for two years. She later became a very influential writer after serving her time. I was amazed to learn that this story was very much based on a true story, yet Ibsen still wanted to make a societal impact on it, giving it the feminist twist at the end.
I also researched the typical fashion of this time. I learned new terms and types of dresses that were worn during the Victorian period, and was very inspired by all the paintings I saw.
My research continued with the setting, Norway 1870s, and the roles of women at this time. After this, I began my character/scene breakdown. Along side reading the script, I broke down each scene in terms of what the character was doing and how they were feeling in this moment. I also took note of any specific costume requirements or any ideas that I had in the moment for a piece. This breakdown was recommended to me by Harold, during my conference. I found this very helpful, as it allowed me to take a look at how the character was feeling at the time and in that specific moment. It was at this time that I also decided to design the costumes for Act 1 only. This act reveals the most about the characters, in terms of how they must surrender to their role in society. This is before all the ideas of rebellion happen. It represents society in its purest state.
In watching my peers present, I was very interested in how much effort was put into the ideas in order to make sure their ideals and stories were told through their art. They were confident in their presentations because they were confident in their concepts and work. One thing I appreciated was the honesty that everyone spoke with, in terms of how far along they were in their process. It made me feel a little better about how far I was. It taught me that I do not need to worry right now and continue with my own process.
Right now, I am excited to begin working on the creative aspects of this project. I am glad that I did spend so much time on the research aspect, as it is so important. However, I want to begin doing something that does not involve reading so much. But, now I think I am ready to begin:)
