Author
Ludvig Holberg
1684-1754
Ludvig Holberg (1684-1754) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Ludvig Holberg
Niels Klim's journey under the ground being a narrative of his wonderful descent to the subterranean lands; together with an account of the sensible animals and trees inhabiting the planet Nazar and the firmament.
"Niels Klim's journey under the ground" by Ludvig Holberg is a satirical science-fiction novel published in 1741. When a curious philosophy student investigates a mysterious cave in Bergen, he falls through the earth and discovers an inner world orbiting a subterranean sun. There he encounters walking, talking trees, explores utopian societies with radically different values, and faces exile for challenging their customs. His twelve-year journey through this underground realm becomes a biting commentary on religion, government, equality, and human nature.
Jeppe on the Hill; Or, The Transformed Peasant: A Comedy in Five Acts
"Jeppe on the Hill; Or, The Transformed Peasant: A Comedy in Five Acts" by Holberg is a comedic play written in the early 18th century, making it a work from the Enlightenment period. The narrative revolves around a peasant named Jeppe, who suffers under the oppressive hand of his wife, Nille, and the societal hierarchy. The play engages with themes of class, identity, and the absurdity of social status while providing a humorous perspective on the struggles of the lower classes. In this comedy, Jeppe, after being manipulated by the nobility, experiences a transformation when he finds himself mistakenly transported to an opulent lifestyle, only to eventually revert back to his peasant life. The plot unfolds as Jeppe is pranked into believing he has become a baron, indulging in the luxuries that come with it. However, his life spirals back into chaos when he is caught up in a mock trial for impersonating a noble. The play satirizes the foolishness of societal pretensions and the fleeting nature of power, highlighting Jeppe's humorous yet tragic journey from a downtrodden peasant to a momentary lord and back again. Through this narrative, Holberg cleverly critiques the rigid class structures of his time while entertaining the audience with laughter and wit.
Comedies by Holberg : Jeppe of the Hill, The Political Tinker, Erasmus Montanus
"Comedies by Holberg: Jeppe of the Hill, The Political Tinker, Erasmus Montanus" by Ludvig Holberg is a collection of comedic plays written in the early 18th century. The works reflect Holberg's keen observations of societal flaws through humor and satire, showcasing the foibles of human nature. The main character in "Jeppe of the Hill" is Jeppe, a drunken peasant whose misadventures and transformation into a "baron" provide a humorous commentary on social class and identity. The opening of "Jeppe of the Hill" introduces the audience to Jeppe's troubled life, characterized by a combative and domineering wife, Nille. As the act unfolds, Jeppe's self-pity and humorous lamentations over his miserable existence are depicted through witty dialogue and monologues. Struggling against his wife's expectations and society's burdens, Jeppe is caught in a cycle of drinking and despair. His interactions with Nille highlight the absurdity of their domestic life, setting the stage for the comedic events that follow as he unwittingly becomes the subject of a farcical prank orchestrated by a baron and his entourage. This portion establishes the play's humorous tone, giving readers a glimpse of the rich character dynamics and societal critiques that will unfold.
De onderaardsche reis van Klaas Klim Behelzende eene nieuwe beschrijving van den aardkloot
"De onderaardsche reis van Klaas Klim" by Ludvig Holberg is a satirical science-fiction novel published in 1741. When a curious philosophy student investigates a mysterious cave in Bergen, he falls into an extraordinary underground world orbiting an inner sun. There he encounters sentient trees, walking plants, and a utopian society that challenges his assumptions about morality, gender equality, religion, and government. His journey through this strange realm becomes a biting satire of European culture and philosophy.
A journey to the world under-ground
"A journey to the world under-ground" by Ludvig Holberg is a satirical science-fiction novel published in 1741. When philosophy student Niels Klim investigates a mysterious cave in Bergen, he falls into an underground realm orbiting an inner sun. There he encounters walking, talking trees and other extraordinary beings in the utopian state of Potu. Through his adventures across this strange world, Klim experiences diverse societies that challenge his assumptions about morality, gender equality, religion, and government.
Talonpoika satimessa: Kolminäytöksinen huvinäytelmä
"Talonpoika satimessa: Kolminäytöksinen huvinäytelmä" by Ludvig Holberg is a comedic play written in the early 18th century. The work offers a satirical glimpse into social hierarchies and human folly through the antics of its characters. It likely addresses themes of deception, identity, and the challenges faced by individuals navigating societal expectations. The story centers around a simple peasant boy, who inadvertently finds himself mistaken for a wealthy paladin through the manipulations of Leerbeutel, a debt-ridden gentleman. In a series of humorous situations, Leerbeutel and his servant Pernilla attempt to rescue themselves from financial ruin by creating a charade that allows them to deceive others into believing the peasant boy is a high-ranking nobleman. As the plot unfolds, various characters, including city merchants and local authorities, get drawn into the web of lies, leading to a chaotic climax where the true identities are revealed. Ultimately, the play critiques societal pretensions and the ease with which people can be misled based on appearances and status.
Valtioviisas kannunvalaja: Viisinäytöksinen komedia
"Valtioviisas kannunvalaja: Viisinäytöksinen komedia" by Ludvig Holberg is a comedic play written in the early 18th century. The story revolves around Herman Bremeniläinen, a cannon maker who has aspirations of becoming a member of the political elite in his town. The play explores themes of ambition, social status, and the comedic struggles of its characters, particularly in their interactions regarding courtship and political aspirations. At the start of the play, we are introduced to Antonius, a wheelwright who nervously prepares to ask Herman for his daughter Engelke's hand in marriage. Despite his reluctance and fears of rejection, he is determined to express his feelings directly. Meanwhile, Herman is depicted as overly ambitious and consumed with thoughts of ascending the political ladder, believing that studying political texts and aspiring to higher positions will elevate his status beyond that of a mere craftsman. The comical dynamics among the characters, particularly in their attempts to navigate social interactions and the absurdity of Herman's aspirations, set the tone for the unfolding comedic elements of the play.
Anttonius Putronius eli Antto Puuronen: Ilveilys viidessä näytelmässä
"Anttonius Putronius eli Antto Puuronen: Ilveilys viidessä näytelmässä" by Ludvig Holberg is a comedic play written in the early 18th century. The work is a satire that explores themes of education, arrogance, and the clash between intellectualism and common sense, primarily through the character of Anttonius Putronius, who embodies an overzealous scholar's hubris. The opening of the play introduces various characters, including the protagonist, Anttonius Putronius, and his family, who await his return home from studies in Helsinki. The initial scenes depict the confusion and comical misunderstandings surrounding Putronius's scholarly achievements, particularly his struggles with Latin, and how his family grapples with the implications of his newfound knowledge. Amidst humorous exchanges with figures like the Kanttori (the village cantor) and his father Sipri, the audience witnesses the relationship between academia and rural life, setting a comedic foundation for Putronius's character development and the unfolding conflicts surrounding his intellectual pretensions.
Mestari Gert eli Lörpöttelevä parturi: Huvinäytelmä 1:ssä näytöksessä
"Mestari Gert eli Lörpöttelevä parturi: Huvinäytelmä 1:ssä näytöksessä" by Holberg is a theatrical comedy written in the early 18th century. This work showcases the humorous and often absurd aspects of social interactions, particularly focusing on love and courtship. With its rich characters and witty dialogues, the play reflects the cultural dynamics of its time, exploring themes of romance, societal expectations, and individual folly. The plot centers around Mestari Gert, a talkative barber and surgeon, who is in love with Leonora, the daughter of an apothecary. However, despite being urged by his mother to propose, Gert's propensity for excessive chatter constantly derails his attempts at romance. Meanwhile, other suitors and the apothecary’s familial expectations further complicate Gert’s chances, leading to comedic misunderstandings and conflicts. Ultimately, Gert’s failure to properly communicate his intentions results in him losing Leonora to another suitor, highlighting the play's critique of communication and the often trivial standards society places on romantic success.
Jeppe sur la Monto; aŭ la Transformita Kamparano
"Jeppe sur la Monto; aŭ la Transformita Kamparano" by Ludvig Holberg is a Danish comedy written in 1722. A drunken peasant named Jeppe, tormented by his wife and trapped in misery, becomes the target of an elaborate prank. When a baron discovers him unconscious, he transports Jeppe to his castle and convinces him he's a nobleman. What follows is a darkly comic exploration of identity, power, and social hierarchy as Jeppe experiences life beyond his station—only to face increasingly absurd consequences when reality intrudes.
Araapilainen pulveri: Yksinäytöksinen huvinäytelmä
"Araapilainen pulveri: Yksinäytöksinen huvinäytelmä" by Ludvig Holberg is a comedic play likely written in the early 18th century. This one-act farce showcases themes of deception, ambition, and the folly of greed, as it follows characters who delve into the quixotic pursuit of turning base metals into gold through fraudulent means. The storyline revolves primarily around Kettuliini, a con artist posing as a master alchemist, who convinces the gullible Polidor that he can teach him the secret art of gold-making. The play explores the interactions between Kettuliini, his accomplice Andreas, and Polidor, as well as various other characters who become embroiled in Kettuliini's schemes. As the plot unfolds, Kettuliini cleverly manipulates Polidor into believing in a fictitious "araapialainen pulveri" (Arabian powder) that supposedly holds the key to wealth. Ultimately, the comedic tension escalates as the truth of Kettuliini's trickery is revealed, culminating in a farcical exploration of human folly and the consequences of blind ambition.
Don Ranudo de Colibrados eli Köyhyys ja Ylpeys: Komedia viidessä näytöksessä
"Don Ranudo de Colibrados eli Köyhyys ja Ylpeys: Komedia viidessä näytöksessä" by Ludvig Holberg is a comedic play written in the late 17th century. The narrative unfolds primarily in a small town in Spain, addressing themes of social status, pride, and the contrast between wealth and nobility. The main characters include Don Ranudo, his wife Donna Olympia, their daughter Maria, and Gontsalo, a nobleman in love with Maria, illustrating the intersection of love and social expectations. The opening of the play introduces us to Gontsalo discussing his love for Donna Maria, the daughter of Don Ranudo. Despite the family's proud status stemming from an illustrious lineage, they are currently facing poverty, which Gontsalo believes the family might eventually acknowledge, particularly when they can no longer sustain their pride. This conversation reveals the tension between social standing and personal feelings, as Gontsalo is determined to pursue Maria regardless of her family's disdain for his lower status. The scene sets the stage for an exploration of the consequences of pride and the struggles of love amid societal constraints.
Arabian-pulweria: Komedia yhtenä näytöksenä, kahdella waihoksella
"Arabian-pulweria: Komedia yhtenä näytöksenä, kahdella waihoksella" by Ludvig Holberg is a comedic play written during the early 18th century. This work is a brief exploration of themes such as greed, deception, and the folly of humans seeking easy wealth. The play's comedic elements are rooted in the protagonist's manipulation of the characters around him as he attempts to exploit others for profit. In the story, Oldfuks, a cunning man who has posed as various professionals across Europe, arrives in a new city intent on reinventing himself as an alchemist who can turn base metals into gold. He tricks a wealthy man, Polidor, into believing he can teach him the secret of gold-making, demanding a hefty sum for his services. The plot unfolds with humor as various characters, including a Jewish merchant and Polidor's wife, get entangled in Oldfuks' deception. As the comedy progresses, it becomes evident that Oldfuks is a charlatan, ultimately exposing the folly in both the seekers of wealth and those who exploit them. The play concludes with the revelation of Oldfuks' trickery, bringing a message about the dangers of greed and the inevitability of deception.
Ei ole aikaa: Komedia kolmessa näytöksessä
"Ei ole aikaa: Komedia kolmessa näytöksessä" by Ludvig Holberg is a comedic play written in the late 17th century. The play revolves around the chaotic life of Bielgeschrey, a character overwhelmed with tasks who struggles to find time for both his professional duties and his daughter's romantic entanglements. It humorously explores themes of procrastination, social obligations, and romantic misunderstandings. At the start of the play, we are introduced to Bielgeschrey and his bustling household, filled with busy servants who are often more of a hindrance than a help. The opening scenes establish Bielgeschrey’s character as a harried man constantly interrupted by various tasks, while the subplots involve his daughter Leonora's romantic interest in Leander and the tension created by Bielgeschrey’s plans to marry her off to another suitor, the less desirable puukhollari. The atmosphere is lively as the multiple characters express their grievances about time and duties, setting the stage for comedic misunderstandings and convoluted plans that are likely to unfold throughout the play.
Niilo Klimin maanalainen matka
"Niilo Klimin maanalainen matka" by Ludvig Holberg is a satirical science-fiction novel published in 1741. When a Norwegian scholar investigates a mysterious cave in Bergen, he tumbles into an extraordinary underworld orbiting an inner sun. There he encounters walking, talking trees, becomes entangled in a utopian society's peculiar customs, and journeys through strange civilizations. His attempts to impose his own values lead to exile, power, and unexpected consequences in this pioneering work of satirical fantasy.
Näyttäymättömät: Huvi-näytelmä kolmessa näytöksessä
" Näyttäymättömät: Huvi-näytelmä kolmessa näytöksessä" by Ludvig Holberg is a comedic play written in the early 18th century. The story revolves around the romantic complications faced by the characters Luulonen and Matti, who each find themselves in pursuit of love under peculiar and humorous circumstances related to their respective "invisible" partners. The play explores themes of love, perception, and social class through witty dialogue and clever banter. At the start of the play, Luulonen expresses anxiety over his engagement to a lady he has never seen, relying solely on her voice and reputation. His humorous servant, Matti, who seems to take the situation lightly, challenges the logic behind their invisible love interests. Their engaging dialogue sets the stage for misunderstandings and comedic situations, particularly as both men navigate their feelings without ever seeing or fully understanding the women they are drawn to. As they discuss the nature of love and attraction, the absurdity of their circumstances becomes increasingly clear, establishing a tone that invites the audience into a light-hearted exploration of romantic folly.
Jeppe Niilonpoika eli Talonpojan ihmeelliset seikkailut Viisinäytöksinen huvinäytelmä
"Jeppe Niilonpoika eli Talonpojan ihmeelliset seikkailut" by Ludvig Holberg is a five-act comedy written in the early 18th century. The story revolves around Jeppe, a hapless peasant whose life takes a wild turn when he unexpectedly finds himself in the luxurious lifestyle of a baron after a night of drunken escapades. This play explores themes of class, identity, and the social dynamics of Holberg's time, offering both humor and incisive social commentary. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Jeppe, who is primarily characterized by his slothfulness and penchant for drinking. His wife, Nilla, struggles to wake him for market day, highlighting their tumultuous relationship. Jeppe laments his miserable existence filled with beatings and neglect, as he contemplates his fate. The scene transitions to Jeppe's encounter with Jaakko, the cobbler, where he expresses his desire for a drink before embarking on his errand. This opening portion sets the stage for Jeppe's misadventures, laying the groundwork for the subsequent absurdity when he falls asleep only to wake up in the baron's bed, convinced he is a nobleman, and prompting further humorous turmoil among the characters surrounding him.