Henrik Ibsen is a foundational figure in Norwegian drama, largely responsible for the rise of modern realistic theater. His works were often considered scandalous, as they revealed the realities hidden behind many facades and challenged prevailing Victorian values. Ibsen established modern drama through his critical lens and free inquiry into life's conditions and moral questions. He shattered audience illusions, disrupting contemporary beliefs about morality plays with predictably appropriate conclusions.
Focusing on themes of mortality and artistic struggle, the story explores the complex relationship between an aging sculptor and his former muse as they navigate their past romance amidst the challenges of his marriage and her mental instability. The narrative delves into the internal conflicts faced by the accomplished artist, providing a poignant examination of life, love, and the burdens of creativity.
Presents English translations of plays by the Norwegian dramatist.
The story explores the complexities of grief and societal judgment as a former priest grapples with his wife's suicide and develops a controversial friendship with a young female resident. Their relationship, which teeters between platonic and intimate, stirs scandal in their community, highlighting themes of morality, redemption, and the struggle for personal freedom amidst societal expectations.
Henrik Ibsen, a pivotal figure in modern theatre, is celebrated for his contributions to realism and his profound influence on dramatic literature. His notable works, including A Doll's House and Hedda Gabler, explore complex themes of identity, societal norms, and personal freedom. Renowned for his innovative storytelling, Ibsen's plays often blend realism with surreal elements, as seen in his early work Peer Gynt. His legacy endures, with A Doll's House recognized as the most performed play globally in 2006, highlighting his lasting impact on the theatrical landscape.
Ibsen's three tragic, domestic plays herald the dawn of modern European drama in their painful unravelling of the past and the relentless examination of family relationships, light, dark, truth and idealism.
Set in a small Norwegian town, this play examines the intricate dynamics of love and marriage against societal expectations. Characters face the contrast between romantic ideals and the harsh realities of their relationships, leading to profound self-discovery and societal critique. Ibsen's sharp dialogue and rich characterization blend humor and drama, offering a nuanced exploration of the human heart and the pursuit of genuine connection. The play's psychological depth and insightful commentary ensure its relevance across generations.
One of the best-known, most frequently performed of modern plays, A Doll's House richly displays the genius with which Henrik Ibsen pioneered modern, realistic prose drama. In the central character of Nora, Ibsen epitomized the human struggle against the humiliating constraints of social conformity. Nora's ultimate rejection of a smothering marriage and life in "a doll's house" shocked theatergoers of the late 1800s and opened new horizons for playwrights and their audiences. But daring social themes are only one aspect of Ibsen's power as a dramatist. A Doll's House shows as well his gifts for creating realistic dialogue, a suspenseful flow of events and, above all, psychologically penetrating characterizations that make the struggles of his dramatic personages utterly convincing. Here is a deeply absorbing play as readable as it is eminently playable, reprinted from an authoritative translation. A selection of the Common Core State Standards Initiative.
Four plays by Henrik Ibsen: A Doll's House, Ghosts, Hedda Gabler and the Master Builder.
The Allmers family grapples with personal aspirations and societal expectations in this poignant play. Alfred, returning from a trip, resolves to prioritize raising his disabled son, Eyolf, over his literary ambitions. Eyolf, yearning for a normal childhood despite his paralysis, faces the challenges of his sheltered life. Alfred's desire to guide Eyolf towards intellectual pursuits clashes with the boy's longing for freedom and normalcy, creating a complex exploration of familial duty and individual desire.
When Jim Hawkins sets off as a cabin boy on the Hispaniola he looks forward to the excitement of searching for buried treasure. But he doesn't know that spine-chilling adventure on Treasure Island awaits him and murderous struggles with Long John Silver and his cut-throat pirate band.
