Victor Frandsen, a domestic tyrant, forces his wife Ida to work as a slave, leaving her exhausted and on the verge of a breakdown. Mads, Victor's former nanny, sympathizes with Ida and helps her escape, taking over the household and caring for the children. When Victor discovers Ida is gone, he becomes angry, but his daughter Karen refuses to reveal her mother's whereabouts, telling him it will be his fault if she dies. Victor's heart is struck, and he becomes willing to learn from Mads' educational scheme, gradually taking on domestic responsibilities. Only when he is completely transformed will Mads and Ida's mother allow him to reunite with Ida.