For a three-act plot analysis, put on your screenwriter’s hat. Moviemakers know the formula well: at the end of Act One, the main character is drawn in completely to a conflict. During Act Two, she is farthest away from her goals. At the end of Act Three, the story is resolved.
Act I
Thea reveals that Eilert is back in town and worries he will fall back into his old alcoholic habits. Hedda’s latent boredom and frustration become more apparent. She toys with Eilert and sends him off to the Judge’s party.
Act II
Hedda finally faces the fact of her own pregnancy. She convinces Eilert to kill himself and burns his manuscript.
Act III
The Judge reveals that Eilert did NOT kill himself beautifully, as Hedda was hoping. He tries to blackmail her, and Hedda kills herself.