Short Answer 
Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows more than the characters, creating suspense, as seen in Ibsen’s work. Key revelations, such as Nora’s true parentage and her uncertain decision to leave her children, enhance tension and anticipation for the audience. This asymmetrical information dynamic elevates the narrative stakes and shapes emotional impacts as characters uncover secrets.
Step 1: Understanding Dramatic Irony
Dramatic irony occurs when the audience has knowledge that the characters in a story do not. This creates a tension-filled atmosphere as viewers are privy to secrets and truths that the characters are unaware of. In Henrik Ibsen‘s work, this technique enhances suspense as the audience anticipates how characters will react upon discovering these hidden insights.
Step 2: Key Revelations That Create Suspense
In the passage, several critical revelations contribute to the tension:
- Nora’s True Parentage: The audience knows that the nurse is actually Nora’s mother, while Nora remains oblivious. This secret cultivates curiosity about how this truth will influence Nora.
- Nora’s Departure: Though Nora is uncertain about leaving her children, the audience is aware she will. This knowledge builds concern over how this situation may unfold and affect her relationships.
- Nurse’s Importance: The audience knows the nurse underestimates her value in Nora’s life, generating anticipation regarding how this realization might impact both characters.
Step 3: The Impact of Dramatic Irony on the Plot
The asymmetrical information flow between the audience and characters heightens the stakes of the narrative. As secrets unfold, the audience is left eagerly anticipating the moments when characters discover hidden truths. This method not only keeps viewers engaged but also shapes the emotional repercussions within the plot, making every revelation significant in the development of the story.