Henrik Ibsen is een fundamentele figuur in het Noorse drama, grotendeels verantwoordelijk voor de opkomst van het moderne realistische theater. Zijn werken werden vaak als schandalig beschouwd, omdat ze de verborgen realiteiten achter veel gevels onthulden en de heersende Victoriaanse waarden uitdaagden. Ibsen vestigde het moderne drama door zijn kritische blik en vrije onderzoek naar levensomstandigheden en morele kwesties. Hij verbrijzelde de illusies van het publiek en verstoorde de hedendaagse opvattingen over morele stukken met voorspelbaar passende conclusies.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The play explores the tragic life of Helen Alving, a widow grappling with the legacy of her unfaithful husband. As she seeks to protect her son Oswald from his father's immoral influence, she discovers he suffers from syphilis and is in love with Regina, his half-sister. The narrative delves into heavy themes of duty, societal morals, and the consequences of past actions, culminating in Oswald's heartbreaking request for assistance in ending his life. Ibsen's work remains a powerful critique of Victorian values and continues to resonate today.
Here, in a single volume, are four major plays by the first modern playwright, Henrik Ibsen. Ghosts - the startling portrayal of a family destroyed by disease and infidelity. The Wild Duck - A poignant drama of lost illusions. An Enemy Of The People - Ibsen's vigorous attack on public opinion. And A Doll's House - the play that scandalized the Victorian world with its unsparing views of love and marriage, featuring one of the most controversial heroines - and one of the most famous exits - in the literature of the stage.,p>Although Ibsen outraged many of his contemporaries, he persisted: he shocked the unthinking into thinking and blasted through the thick fog of convention to the restless human passions hidden underneath. Today his plays remain masterpieces of psychological insight and theatrical power.
Presents English translations of plays by the Norwegian dramatist.
