Author
Henrik Ibsen
1828-1906
Henrik Ibsen (1828-1906) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Henrik Ibsen
A Doll's House : a play
"A Doll's House : a play by Henrik Ibsen" is a three-act play written in 1879. Set in a Norwegian town, it follows Nora Helmer, a married woman navigating life in a male-dominated society where opportunities for self-fulfillment are scarce. When a figure from her past threatens to expose a secret financial transgression, Nora faces a crisis that challenges everything she knows about her marriage and identity. The play sparked outraged controversy upon its premiere and remains one of the most performed works in theater history.
Hedda Gabler
"Hedda Gabler" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1890 and premiered in 1891. It dramatizes the story of Hedda, a general's daughter trapped in a loveless marriage and desperate for control over her own life. When her husband's academic rival—a former lover—reappears with his rehabilitated life and brilliant manuscript, Hedda's jealousy and manipulations set tragic events in motion. As she schemes to influence the fates of those around her, she finds herself increasingly cornered by circumstances and a sinister family friend who threatens her freedom.
An Enemy of the People
"An Enemy of the People" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1882 that explores the clash between truth and societal pressure. Dr. Thomas Stockmann discovers dangerous contamination in his town's new spa baths and decides to expose the threat to public health. His decision triggers fierce opposition from local leaders, including his own brother, who fear economic ruin. As the community turns against him, Stockmann faces professional and personal consequences for challenging the establishment and refusing to compromise his principles.
Ghosts
"Ghosts" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1881. This controversial drama follows widow Helen Alving as she prepares to dedicate an orphanage in memory of her unfaithful late husband. When her son Oswald returns home, long-buried family secrets begin to surface, threatening to destroy the carefully maintained façade of respectability. The play explores the devastating consequences of following society's moral code, confronting taboo subjects that scandalized 19th-century audiences and challenged conventional notions of duty, truth, and maternal sacrifice.
The Master Builder
"The Master Builder" by Henrik Ibsen is a play published in 1892. When a young woman named Hilda arrives at the home of Halvard Solness, a successful master builder, she claims they met years ago and that he made her extraordinary promises. As Hilda insinuates herself into his household and encourages his ambitions, Solness becomes convinced he possesses mysterious powers to will events into existence. This psychological drama blends realistic characters with symbolic elements, exploring obsession, ambition, and the dangerous allure of youth.
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 04 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 04 (of 11)" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of drama, specifically a dramatic poem titled "Peer Gynt," written during the mid-19th century. This work presents a combination of fantastical and satirical elements that follow the life and adventures of the titular character, Peer Gynt, a complex and imaginative young man from the Norwegian countryside who engages in numerous escapades and self-deceptions. The opening of "Peer Gynt" introduces the main character, Peer, and his tense relationship with his mother, Åse, who chastises him for his tendency to embellish stories and avoid responsibility. As Peer recounts a seemingly outlandish tale about his hunting exploits, his mother expresses disbelief and frustration, reflecting on their family's diminished circumstances. Their interaction sets the stage for Peer's character development, as he dreams of greatness while grappling with the disappointment of his current life. This lively exchange showcases Ibsen's characteristic blend of humor and pathos, establishing a rich foundation for the adventure and self-discovery that will unfold throughout the poem.
The wild duck : $b A drama in five acts
"The Wild Duck" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1884. It follows the Ekdal family, whose fragile domestic peace is destroyed when an idealistic outsider insists on exposing long-buried secrets. Gregers Werle returns from exile determined to reveal the truth about his father's relationship with his friend's wife, believing honesty will liberate them. Instead, his revelations threaten to tear the family apart, forcing them to confront painful questions about love, legitimacy, and the cost of truth versus the comfort of illusion.
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 07 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 07 (of 11)" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of dramatic works from the late 19th century. This volume includes the renowned plays "A Doll’s House" and "Ghosts," both of which explore complex themes of morality, social norms, and the intricacies of human relationships. The main character in "A Doll’s House," Nora, is portrayed as a seemingly frivolous woman who undergoes a profound personal awakening, while "Ghosts" delves into familial legacy and societal hypocrisy. The opening of "A Doll’s House" introduces us to Nora Helmer, who is bustling about her home in the excitement of preparing for Christmas. She engages in playful banter with her husband, Torvald Helmer, showcasing their seemingly happy but complex relationship. As Nora remembers her past struggles, including the sacrifices she made for Torvald's health, we glimpse her inner turmoil and the weight of a secret that threatens to disrupt their domestic bliss. The scene sets up the tensions that will unravel as the plot progresses, hinting at Nora's journey of self-discovery and the challenging realities of her marriage.
When We Dead Awaken
"When We Dead Awaken" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1899. Sculptor Arnold Rubek encounters Irena, the model who inspired his greatest masterpiece years ago. Both feel spiritually dead since their collaboration ended—he trapped in fame without inspiration, she convinced he stole her soul for art. As they reunite at a mountain spa, their tangled past resurfaces alongside dangerous obsessions. Meanwhile, Arnold's neglected wife seeks freedom elsewhere. The pairs ascend toward an uncertain fate as a storm gathers.
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 01 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 01 (of 11)" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of dramatic works written in the late 19th century. This volume includes three plays: "Lady Inger of Östråt," "The Feast at Solhoug," and "Love's Comedy." These works explore intricate themes of power dynamics, societal norms, and personal struggles, with characters that navigate the complexities of love, ambition, and familial duty. At the start of "Lady Inger of Östråt," the stage is set in the dramatic backdrop of Norway in 1528, where Lady Inger is at the center of an impending conflict. We find her receiving guests and grappling with a sense of national degradation under Danish rule, exemplified through the discussions among her servants and peasants about rising against their oppressors. The opening introduces tensions surrounding Lady Inger’s ambitions for her family and her struggles with the looming threats posed by the political landscape. The scene is charged with emotions as Elina, her daughter, reflects on the weight of their heritage and the sacrifices made for power, setting the foundation for the intricate relationships and moral dilemmas that will unfold throughout the play.
Ghosts: A Domestic Tragedy in Three Acts
"Ghosts: A Domestic Tragedy in Three Acts" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1881. Mrs. Alving prepares to dedicate an orphanage in memory of her late husband, concealing his scandalous past. When her son Oswald returns home, devastating secrets emerge about inheritance, forbidden love, and the consequences of upholding society's moral code. The play's frank treatment of taboo subjects sparked immediate controversy, yet it became recognized as a groundbreaking work that questioned whether following conventional morality leads to tragedy.
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 05 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 05" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of theatrical works written in the late 19th century. This volume includes the play "Emperor and Galilean," which is a historical drama centered around the life and struggles of Emperor Julian, known as "Julian the Apostate." As Ibsen explores Julian's internal conflicts, the play delves into themes of faith, power, and the battle between paganism and Christianity during a pivotal time in Roman history. At the start of "Emperor and Galilean," we are introduced to an intriguing blend of characters in the court of Emperor Constantius on Easter night. Amidst the chaos of rival factions and the looming threat of violence against non-Christians, young Julian grapples with his identity and the expectations of those around him. Tensions rise as he faces pressures from his family and the court while shaking off the influence of both Christian and pagan philosophies. In this early scene, the historical setting becomes palpable as Julian's internal struggle unfolds against the backdrop of religious and political turbulence, setting the stage for his eventual apostasy.
The Lady from the Sea
"The Lady from the Sea" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1888. Ellida Wangel, daughter of a lighthouse-keeper, lives in a Norwegian fjord town with her physician husband and two stepdaughters. Haunted by the sea and a mysterious past engagement to a sailor who fled after murder, her life unravels when he returns years later to claim her. Ellida must choose between her former lover and her present husband in this psychological drama exploring freedom, obligation, and the pull of the past.
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 02 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 02 (of 11)" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of plays written in the mid-19th century. This volume includes the two dramatic works "The Vikings at Helgeland" and "The Pretenders." The themes explore complex character dynamics, societal roles, and the interplay between personal ambition and moral responsibility against the backdrop of Norse tradition and mythology. At the start of "The Vikings at Helgeland," the characters are introduced amidst a tense encounter between the Viking Sigurd and the Icelandic chieftain Örnulf. The scene sets a dramatic tone with promises of peace contrasting the potential for conflict over past grievances. Sigurd's fierce loyalty to his foster-brother Gunnar and his wife Dagny weaves a complex web of relationships that hint at future tensions, especially with the strong-willed Hiördis, Örnulf's foster-daughter. The opening also hints at underlying themes of vengeance, honor, and the consequences of past actions as characters navigate personal and familial bonds in a harsh, mythic landscape.
Early Plays — Catiline, the Warrior's Barrow, Olaf Liljekrans
"Early Plays — Catiline, the Warrior's Barrow, Olaf Liljekrans" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of three early dramatic works written during the mid-19th century. This volume showcases Ibsen's evolution as a playwright, providing insight into his formative years when he began to grapple with the themes of individualism, societal conflict, and the intricacies of human motivation. The centerpiece, "Catiline," features Lucius Catiline, a Roman politician torn between his desires for greatness and the oppressive reality of his circumstances, setting the stage for a profound exploration of ambition and moral struggle. The opening of "Catiline" establishes a dark, introspective mood as the protagonist grapples with his disillusionment with the world around him, revealing his troubled psyche. As Catiline stands outside Rome, he wrestles with feelings of inadequacy, yearning for a life filled with purpose rather than the emptiness he currently experiences. This sense of restlessness draws him into a conspiracy that promises to restore the glory of Rome, yet it is also intertwined with a personal vendetta following a fatal encounter with a woman named Furia, who demands retribution for her sister's death. The interplay of political ambition and personal revenge introduces a complex layer to Catiline's character, foreshadowing the turmoil and tragedy that await in his quest for recognition and purpose.
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 03 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 03" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of dramatic works, specifically focusing on the play "Brand," which was written in the mid-19th century. This volume not only includes the text of the play but also features an introduction that discusses its significance in Scandinavian literature and Ibsen's exploration of existential themes. The central character, Brand, is portrayed as a priest grappling with profound moral questions and the struggle between individual will and societal norms. The opening of "Brand" introduces the titular character as he navigates a treacherous mountain landscape, accompanied by a peasant and his son. The setting conveys a sense of isolation and impending danger as Brand remains steadfast in his mission, seemingly driven by divine purpose, refusing to turn back despite warnings. This initial encounter sets the stage for Brand’s uncompromising worldview, emphasizing themes of faith, sacrifice, and the human condition. Through these interactions, Ibsen introduces the audience to the complex moral fabric that will define the rest of the play, showcasing Brand's determination to confront life’s challenges, no matter the cost.
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen Vol. 10 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen Vol. 10" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of two renowned plays, "Hedda Gabler" and "The Master Builder," written in the late 19th century. The book showcases Ibsen's mastery in exploring complex characters and their psychological struggles against societal norms and personal desires. Thematically, it delves into the intricacies of human relationships, ambition, and the constraints created by societal expectations. At the start of "Hedda Gabler," the focus is on the titular character, Hedda, as she navigates her new life as the wife of George Tesman, a man absorbed in his academic pursuits. The opening scene reveals Hedda's cold and restless nature, showcasing her disdain for conventional domestic life. Adding tension, her former lover, Eilert Lövborg, is introduced as a looming presence in her thoughts, suggesting complications ahead. Meanwhile, "The Master Builder" is set to explore the life of Halvard Solness, hinting at existential themes tied to his ambitions and fears. Together, the beginning of these plays establishes a framework for intense character studies that challenge societal roles, promising engaging narratives that will resonate with readers interested in psychological drama.
Little Eyolf
"Little Eyolf" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1894. The story follows Alfred Allmers, who returns from a mountain journey resolved to dedicate himself to his disabled son, Eyolf. When a mysterious Rat-Wife visits their home, tragedy strikes the family, forcing Alfred and his possessive wife Rita to confront buried guilt, resentment, and painful truths about their marriage. As blame surfaces and relationships fracture, they must decide whether redemption is possible through atonement.
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 09 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 09" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of plays, including "Rosmersholm" and "The Lady from the Sea," created during the late 19th century. This volume captures Ibsen's exploration of complex human relationships, societal norms, and psychological depths through its rich characters and intricate storylines. A significant theme revolves around individual emancipation and moral dilemmas within the context of a changing society. The opening portion of "Rosmersholm" introduces us to the titular character, Johannes Rosmer, a former clergyman living in his ancestral home, where past tragedies continue to haunt him. We meet Rebecca West, who manages Rosmer's household, and Rector Kroll, Rosmer's brother-in-law, who brings political tensions to the fore. A sense of foreboding is established as the characters reflect on the lingering impact of death on their lives and community. As discussions unfold, they touch on themes of loyalty, societal change, and the ghosts of their pasts, hinting at the conflicts to come as Rosmer grapples with his ideological awakening and the implications of his relationships with Rebecca and Kroll.
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 08 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 08 (of 11)" by Henrik Ibsen is a dramatic anthology written in the late 19th century. This volume contains two of Ibsen's significant plays: "An Enemy of the People" and "The Wild Duck". The works prominently explore themes of truth, morality, and the impact of societal expectations on individual lives, incorporating complex characters such as the idealistic Dr. Thomas Stockmann, who finds himself at odds with his community. The opening of "An Enemy of the People" introduces Dr. Stockmann, a passionate medical officer who has made a shocking discovery about the town's baths—an important source of economic prosperity—that they are dangerously contaminated. As he eagerly prepares to reveal his findings, the dynamics of power and public opinion come into play when his brother, the Burgomaster, suggests suppressing the information to protect the town's interests. This conflict between truth and social responsibility sets the stage for a nuanced exploration of the societal implications of his discovery, hinting at the struggles Dr. Stockmann will face as he chooses to uphold his moral integrity against overwhelming opposition.
Rosmersholm
"Rosmersholm" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1886. It follows Johannes Rosmer, a former clergyman haunted by his wife's suicide, and Rebecca West, his strong-willed companion, as they navigate guilt, forbidden love, and political turmoil at the ancestral Rosmersholm manor. Their relationship unravels through accusations and confessions, revealing Rebecca's dark role in the late wife's death. Unable to escape their moral guilt or trust each other, they face an impossible choice between living with their past and embracing a tragic fate together.
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 06 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 06 (of 11)" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of plays, specifically including "The League of Youth" and "Pillars of Society," written in the late 19th century. This volume highlights Ibsen's critical examination of social issues, relationships, and the dynamics within society, featuring characters seeking ambition and personal growth, often in the face of societal limitations. The beginning of this volume starts with an introduction detailing Ibsen's creative process while writing "The League of Youth." It depicts a celebratory fête surrounding Norway's Independence Day, where the ambitious Stensgård takes center stage, rallying the crowd and calling for change against the established order characterized by the Chamberlain and other authority figures. The actors at the fête are introduced, revealing their various perspectives on political and social dynamics, with themes of youth, ambition, and social reform emerging prominently from the dialogue set amidst lively discussions and political aspirations.
A Doll's House
"A Doll's House" by Henrik Ibsen is a three-act play written in 1879. Set in a Norwegian town, the play follows Nora Helmer, a married woman struggling for self-fulfillment in a male-dominated world. When a desperate bank employee threatens to expose a secret loan Nora obtained by forging her father's signature, her carefully constructed life begins to unravel. The play sparked outraged controversy at its premiere and became a theatrical sensation that transcended the stage, igniting debates throughout society.
Dramatische Werken: De comedie der liefde; Brand; Peer Gynt
"Dramatische Werken: De comedie der liefde; Brand; Peer Gynt" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of dramatic works written in the late 19th century. The first part, "De comedie der liefde," explores themes of love, societal norms, and personal aspirations through its characters, including the ambitious writer Valk and the thoughtful Zwaanhilde. This collection dives into intricate relationships and the complexities of love, inviting readers to reflect on the nature of human desires and societal expectations. At the start of "De comedie der liefde," the scene is set in a beautiful garden adjoining a villa, where various characters, including Mevrouw Halm, her daughters Anna and Zwaanhilde, and the young writer Valk, engage in lively conversations about life and love. The dialogue reveals Valk's romantic aspirations alongside the contemplative nature of Zwaanhilde, who expresses her disdain for societal restrictions. As the characters navigate their relationships and ambitions, hints of underlying tensions and ambitions emerge, particularly as Zwaanhilde grapples with her identity and desires amidst the expectations placed on her and others. The dynamic interactions set the stage for a deeper exploration of love and the personal conflicts that challenge it.