Why does Hedda destroy the manuscript?

a. to ruin Lovborg's reputation

b. to ruin Lovborg's life

c. out of hatred for Thea

d. so her husband, not Lovborg, gets the professorship

It might be said that Hedda destroyed the manuscript in order to "ruin Lovborg's reputation" (option A). It might seem that the manuscript would redeem him from his past disgrace and, at the same time, it would establish him with a fine reputation in the future. It was considered a "child" for him and for Thea.