A Doll S House And Two Other Plays

A Doll's House/Ghosts/Pillars of the Community/An Enemy of the People 'Our home has never been anything other than a play-house. I've been your doll-wife here, just as at home I was Daddy's doll-child' These four plays established Ibsen as the leading figure in the theatre of his day, sending shockwaves throughout Europe and beyond. A Doll's House scandalized audiences with its free-thinking heroine Nora. Ibsen's even more radical follow-up, Ghosts, exposes family secrets and sexual double-dealing, while Pillars of the Community and An Enemy of the People both explore the hypocrisy and the dark tensions at the heart of society. This new translation, the first to be based on the latest critical edition of Ibsen's works, offers the best version available in English. A new translation by DEBORAH DAWKIN and ERIK SKUGGEVIK With an Introduction by TORE REM General Editor TORE REM

A Doll's House is a three-act play written by Henrik Ibsen in 1879. It is a groundbreaking play that explores the themes of marriage, gender roles, and identity in 19th century society. Ibsen's play was met with controversy and outrage due to its bold critique of the traditional roles of men and women in marriage. The play has since become a classic of modern drama and is widely studied and performed in educational institutions around the world. The play is set in Norway and follows the story of Nora Helmer, a seemingly happy and content housewife. However, as the play unfolds, we see that Nora is living a double life. She has secretly borrowed money to save her husband's life, and is now being blackmailed by the lender. The play depicts Nora's struggle to find her true identity and the consequences of living a life based on societal expectations rather than her own desires. One of the main themes explored in the play is the role of women in marriage. Nora is portrayed as a typical 19th century wife, who is expected to be obedient, nurturing, and submissive. However, as the play progresses, we see that Nora is not content with this role and longs for independence and self-discovery. Ibsen challenges the traditional gender roles and shows how society's expectations can suffocate and limit an individual's growth. Another important theme in the play is the concept of identity. Nora's character undergoes a transformation throughout the play as she begins to question her role as a wife and mother. She realizes that she has been living a life that is not truly her own, and she must break free from societal expectations to find her true self. This theme is also reflected in the character of Torvald, Nora's husband, who is more concerned with his social status and reputation than his wife's happiness. Ibsen also uses symbolism throughout the play to convey deeper meanings. The title "A Doll's House" itself is significant, as it represents the idea that women were seen as mere playthings or objects in a patriarchal society. The Christmas tree, a recurring symbol in the play, represents the facade of happy family life that Nora and Torvald try to maintain. However, as the tree begins to shed its decorations, it symbolizes the unraveling of Nora's perfect facade. At the time of its publication, A Doll's House was met with harsh criticism and was deemed scandalous due to its portrayal of a woman challenging societal norms. However, its impact on modern drama cannot be overstated. Ibsen's play paved the way for a new genre of realistic drama and influenced many other playwrights to explore similar themes. It continues to be studied and performed today, as it remains relevant in its critique of societal expectations and the struggle for individual identity.

"A Doll's House" by Henrik Ibsen is a groundbreaking and thought-provoking masterpiece that challenges societal norms and explores the complex dynamics of marriage and identity. Set in 19th-century Norway, the play revolves around Nora Helmer, a seemingly content wife and mother, and her husband Torvald. As the plot unfolds, the audience is drawn into a web of secrets, lies, and personal revelations. Nora's journey from a docile, doll-like existence to a woman determined to assert her independence is at the heart of the play. Ibsen's writing skillfully delves into themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and the quest for self-discovery. The play's impact on theater and literature is profound, as it marks a pivotal moment in the emergence of modern drama. Ibsen's exploration of the inner lives of his characters and his critique of the traditional roles assigned to women continue to resonate with audiences today. "A Doll's House" is a gripping and emotionally charged work that invites reflection on issues of autonomy, identity, and the consequences of societal pressures. It challenges the audience to question the roles they play in their own lives and the authenticity of their relationships. Step into the world of "A Doll's House" and witness the power of Henrik Ibsen's storytelling as it continues to provoke thought and discussion on the timeless themes of freedom and individuality. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Henrik Ibsen (1828-1906) was a Norwegian playwright and one of the most significant figures in modern drama. Born in Skien, Norway, Ibsen's works, including "A Doll's House," "Hedda Gabler," and "Peer Gynt," have had a profound impact on the theater and literature. Ibsen's writing is characterized by its realistic portrayal of human psychology and societal issues. He explored themes such as women's rights, social hypocrisy, and the consequences of personal choices, challenging the conventions of his time. His plays often sparked controversy and debate but also contributed to significant social and cultural changes. Ibsen's legacy extends far beyond his lifetime, as his innovative approach to drama and storytelling laid the foundation for modern theater. His works continue to be performed worldwide, and he remains a celebrated playwright whose influence on literature and drama endures.

A Doll's House, written two years after The Pillars of Society, was the first of Ibsen's plays to create a sensation and is now perhaps his most famous play, and required reading in many secondary schools and universities. The play was highly controversial when first published, as it is sharply critical of 19th Century marriage norms. It follows the formula of well-made play up until the final act, when it breaks convention by ending with a discussion, not an unravelling. It is often called the first true feminist play, although Ibsen denied this.