From a feminist standpoint...

Hedda's main goal is to maintain power over at least one other character. Throughout the play Hedda shows extreme admiration for General Gabler and does her best to emulate him. As a woman, however, she finds this difficult. It is obvious that as a female, Hedda feels inferior.  This oppressive consciousness is only strengthened by the constant remarks made by Julie and Tesman regarding her feminine character which she does her best to ignore. When Tesman remarks, "But have you noticed how plump and buxom she's grown? How much she's filled out on the trip?" Hedda retorts, "Oh, do be quiet-!" It seems that Eilert Lovborg is the only man who truly respects Hedda. However, Hedda realizes that Eilert is now involved with Thea and  becomes jealous of their connection. She notices the way Eilert both recognizes and appreciates Thea's contribution and opinion regarding the manuscript and therefore, comes to detest the manuscript as well seeing as for her, it represents the bond between Eilert and Thea. Indirectly, Hedda may feel that in some way destroying the manuscript gave her power and might allow her to regain her connection with Eilert. On the other hand, Tesman treats Hedda almost like a child. The manner in which he constantly exclaims "Imagine!" and "Oh is that so?" to Hedda is similar to the way in which an adult might humor a child and lacks genuine interest.  Judge Brack seems to be most familiar with Hedda's character. He is also the one who maintains the most control over Hedda. This control is best seen towards the end of Act Four when he confronts Hedda about Eilert's death. Brack is aware that Hedda is the one who provided the pistol for Eilert's death. He tells Hedda that the police have the pistol and will attempt to trace it back to its owner. Hedda inquires, "Do you think they'll succeed?" and Brack replies vindictively, "No, Hedda Gabler-as long as I keep quiet" (301). Especially with this information, Brack attains complete control over Hedda and well as her fate. Hedda's suicide stands for her surrender to the male domination which subordinates her and her overall inability to continue as a female in her society.