How does Norina’s behavior change after the sham marriage ceremony?

Immediately following the sham marriage ceremony in Gaetano Donizetti’s opera, Norina undergoes a dramatic transformation. Having initially played the role of "Sofronia," a shy, trembling, and demure country girl to deceive Don Pasquale, she abruptly drops this facade once the contract is signed.12

She shifts into a domineering virago, asserting her authority over the household and refusing to be intimidated by Pasquale. Her behavioral changes include:1

• Asserting Control: She informs Pasquale that she is now the boss and will not tolerate any back talk or interruptions.1
• Rejecting Pasquale: She repels his attempts at affection and refuses his requests, insisting he wait for her permission.1
• Extravagant Demands: She immediately begins ordering changes to the household, including hiring more servants, doubling wages, and demanding new carriages, furniture, and luxury goods, all at Pasquale’s expense.1
• Public Defiance: She mocks Pasquale’s age and physical condition, declaring that she requires a younger man like Ernesto to escort her in public.1

This calculated shift is part of the plot to drive Pasquale to such desperation that he will eventually agree to allow Ernesto to marry Norina.12