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Ibsen, Henrik, 1828-1906 -- Translations into English Books
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Henrik Ibsen
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.
Henrik Ibsen
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.
Henrik Ibsen
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.
Henrik Ibsen
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.
Henrik Ibsen
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.
Henrik Ibsen
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.
Henrik Ibsen
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.
Henrik Ibsen
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.
Henrik Ibsen
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.
Henrik Ibsen
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.
Henrik Ibsen
The collected works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 11 (of 11)
"The Collected Works of Henrik Ibsen, Vol. 11" by Henrik Ibsen is a collection of dramatic works written in the late 19th century. This volume includes three of Ibsen's significant plays: "Little Eyolf," "John Gabriel Borkman," and "When We Dead Awaken." The central themes of these plays often explore the complexities of human relationships, egoism, and the pursuit of self-realization against societal norms. The characters are richly drawn and reflect the struggles and moral dilemmas of human existence. At the start of "Little Eyolf," the audience is introduced to Alfred Allmers and his wife, Rita, who are anxiously awaiting the return of their son Eyolf, who has a physical disability. The dialogue establishes a tense dynamic between Alfred and Rita, as Alfred expresses a desire to be a more engaged father, aiming to help Eyolf cope with his limitations and seek happiness. However, their conversation takes a darker turn as Rita exhibits jealousy and resentment toward Eyolf, viewing him as an impediment to her relationship with Alfred. As these familial tensions unfold, the arrival of the mysterious Rat-Wife hints at deeper, possibly supernatural influences that will impact their lives dramatically. The atmosphere is charged with emotions, setting the stage for a profound exploration of parental love, egoism, and the confrontation with fate.
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