How does the interaction between helmer and nora
advance the plot?
helmer decides he might need to use strength against
krogstad to make him leave his position at the bank.
helmer realizes that nora is right about krogstad,
which will keep her secret safe from him later in the
play
© helmer thinks that nora is afraid his reputation will
suffer, heightening the suspense about her real secret.
helmer agrees with nora that it is too late and that he
has made a mistake with krogstad, which creates
conflict

Helmer thinks that Nora is afraid his reputation will suffer, heightening the suspense about her real secret.

Explanation:

In this interaction, we learn about Helmer's opinions of Krogstad. We learn that Helmer has decided to fire Krogstad, and that Nora is taking the news very badly. She is upset and anxious, and she begs Helmer to take his words back. Helmer believes that Nora is upset because she cares deeply about his reputation, and she is worried that this will suffer. However, the reality is that Nora is afraid her secret will be revealed. This discrepancy heightens the suspense about Nora's real secret.