Ibsen Plays 5

Michael Meyer's translations of Ibsen have been acclaimed throughout the world for the fresh insight they provide into this great modern dramatist.

The two epic plays in this volume stand, together with Peer Gynt and The Pretenders, at the fulcrum of Ibsen's career. Brand (1865) stated sharply and vividly the necessity of following one's private conscience and 'being oneself'. It created an immediate sensation and was hailed by Strindberg as 'the voice of a Savonarola'. Emperor and Galilean (1873), which Ibsen referred to as his masterpiece, is both his farewell to the epic drama and the forerunner of his great naturalistic prose plays that were to burst on the nineteenth century. Michael Meyer's translations are 'crisp and cobweb-free, purged of verbal Victoriana' (Kenneth Tynan)

Ibsen's twelve outstanding plays, from Pillars of Society to When We Dead Awaken, are accompanied by brief introductions illuminating the distinctive features of each

This volume contains Ibsen's two most famous and frequently read, studied and performed plays about women: A Doll's House (1879), his first international success, which 'exploded like a bomb into contemporary life', and Hedda Gabler (1890), now one of his most popular plays, but greeted at first with bewilderment and outrage ('The play is simply a bad escape of moral sewage-gas' Pictorial World). Also included is An Enemy of the People (1883), whose central character was the actor Konstantin Stanislavski's favourite role.Michael Meyer's translations are 'crisp and cobweb-free, purged of verbal Victoriana' (Kenneth Tynan)

An Enemy of The People by Henrik Ibsen An Enemy of The People - A play in five acts An Enemy of the People (original Norwegian title: En folkefiende) is an 1882 play by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen. Ibsen wrote it in response to the public outcry against his play Ghosts, which at that time was considered scandalous. Ghosts had challenged the hypocrisy of Victorian morality and was deemed indecent for its veiled references to syphilis. Upon completion of the play, Ibsen wrote to his publisher in Copenhagen, Denmark: "I am still uncertain as to whether I should call it a comedy or a straight drama. It may [have] many traits of comedy, but it also is based on a serious idea."

Collects five plays spanning Ibsen's career, with general introductions, explanatory annotations, criticism, and selections from his correspondence and other writings.

"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.

In the history of modern theatre, Ibsen is one of the dominating figures. The sixteen chapters of this 1994 Companion explore his life and work, providing an invaluable reference work for students. In chronological terms they range from an account of Ibsen's earliest pieces, through the years of rich experimentation, to the mature 'Ibsenist' plays that made him famous towards the end of the nineteenth century. Among the thematic topics are discussions of Ibsen's comedy, realism, lyric poetry and feminism. Substantial chapters account for Ibsen's influence on the international stage and his challenge to theatre and film directors and playwrights today. Essential reference materials include a full chronology, list of works and essays on twentieth-century criticism and further reading.