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Cover of The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 08 (of 11)

The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 08 (of 11)

Written by Henrik Ibsen

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Norwegian dramaIbsen, Henrik, 1828-1906

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About this book

"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 08 (of 11)" by Henrik Ibsen is a dramatic anthology written in the late 19th century. This volume contains two of Ibsen's significant plays: "An Enemy of the People" and "The Wild Duck". The works prominently explore themes of truth, morality, and the impact of societal expectations on individual lives, incorporating complex characters such as the idealistic Dr. Thomas Stockmann, who finds himself at odds with his community. The opening of "An Enemy of the People" introduces Dr. Stockmann, a passionate medical officer who has made a shocking discovery about the town's baths—an important source of economic prosperity—that they are dangerously contaminated. As he eagerly prepares to reveal his findings, the dynamics of power and public opinion come into play when his brother, the Burgomaster, suggests suppressing the information to protect the town's interests. This conflict between truth and social responsibility sets the stage for a nuanced exploration of the societal implications of his discovery, hinting at the struggles Dr. Stockmann will face as he chooses to uphold his moral integrity against overwhelming opposition.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 08 (of 11), written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • advanced
  • thought-provoking
  • realistic
  • tragic

Volume 08 of Henrik Ibsen's collected works presents two pivotal social dramas, "An Enemy of the People" and "The Wild Duck," which collectively dissect the precarious balance between individual integrity and societal demands. Through the struggles of characters like the idealistic Dr. Thomas Stockmann and the tragic Hedvig Ekdal, Ibsen explores the corrosive nature of lies, the often-painful consequences of truth, and the complex interplay of idealism, self-deception, and moral responsibility. These plays unflinchingly challenge conventional morality and expose the hypocrisies inherent in communal life, cementing Ibsen's legacy as a master of realistic and psychologically profound drama.

“"The strongest man in the world is he who stands most alone." - Dr. Thomas Stockmann, An Enemy of the People”

Key themes

Truth vs. Expediency
This theme is central to 'An Enemy of the People', where Dr. Stockmann's scientific truth about the contaminated baths clashes directly with the town's economic interests and the desire to maintain a positive public image. It explores how society often prioritizes convenience and profit over inconvenient truths and moral integrity.
Idealism and Illusion (The 'Life-Lie')
This theme is paramount in 'The Wild Duck' and also evident in 'An Enemy of the People'. It examines the role of comforting illusions (the 'life-lie') in human happiness and survival, contrasting them with a rigid, uncompromising idealism that can be destructive. It questions whether absolute truth is always beneficial or if some deceptions are necessary for well-being.
The Individual vs. Society
Both plays, but especially 'An Enemy of the People', explore the profound conflict between a principled individual and the collective will of society. It questions the nature of democratic majorities and whether the 'majority is always right', often showing the individual being crushed or ostracized for upholding personal convictions.

Worth discussing

To what extent is Dr. Stockmann a hero or a fool in 'An Enemy of the People'? Discuss his idealism versus his naiveté.

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