Famous Four Plays by Henrik Ibsen (Hardcover)

“Famous Four Plays by Henrik Ibsen” is a collection that brings together four of the most celebrated and influential plays by the renowned Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen. Each of these plays is a classic of world drama, known for its thought-provoking themes, complex characters, and enduring relevance. Here’s a description of each of the plays included in this collection:

1. “A Doll’s House” (1879): “A Doll’s House” is one of Ibsen’s most famous works and a landmark in the development of modern drama. The play tells the story of Nora Helmer, a woman who seemingly leads a comfortable and conventional life as a wife and mother. However, as the plot unfolds, it reveals the constraints of her societal role and the sacrifices she has made. Nora’s quest for personal liberation and self-discovery challenges the traditional gender roles of the time and raises questions about the nature of marriage and identity.
2. “Ghosts” (1881): “Ghosts” is a powerful and controversial play that confronts taboo subjects such as heredity, venereal disease, and the consequences of societal hypocrisy. The story revolves around Mrs. Alving, who is haunted by her past choices and secrets. As the truth about her family’s history is gradually revealed, the play exposes the dark underbelly of morality and societal expectations.
3. “An Enemy of the People” (1882): In “An Enemy of the People,” Ibsen explores the conflict between individual conscience and the collective interests of society. Dr. Thomas Stockmann, a dedicated physician, discovers that the town’s water source is contaminated. His efforts to expose the truth and protect public health are met with resistance from local authorities and business interests. The play raises questions about integrity, moral responsibility, and the challenges of speaking truth to power.
4. “John Gabriel Borkman” (1896): “John Gabriel Borkman” is a character-driven drama that explores themes of ambition, guilt, and the consequences of past actions. The titular character, John Gabriel Borkman, is a disgraced former bank director who has spent years in self-imposed exile. The play delves into the lives of Borkman and those around him as they grapple with their individual desires and the shadow of his financial scandal.

Henrik Ibsen is considered one of the most significant playwrights of the 19th century, and his works continue to resonate with audiences for their incisive social commentary and exploration of psychological depth. “Famous Four Plays by Henrik Ibsen” offers a compelling glimpse into his dramatic genius and the timeless themes that continue to captivate theatergoers and readers alike.