Subject
Physicians -- Drama Books
Best books
Henrik Ibsen
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.
Bernard Shaw
The Doctor's Dilemma
"The Doctor's Dilemma" by Bernard Shaw is a play first staged in 1906. It explores moral conflicts created by limited medical resources when a doctor discovers a tuberculosis cure but can only treat ten patients. When asked to save one more person, he must choose between a selfless medical colleague or a brilliant but immoral artist—a decision complicated by his attraction to the artist's wife. The play satirizes the medical profession's tension between public service and private gain.
Bernard Shaw
The Doctor's Dilemma
Wikipedia page about this book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Doctor%27s_Dilemma_(play)
Elizabeth Stuart Phelps
Within the Gates
"Within the Gates" by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps is a drama written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around Doctor Esmerald Thorne, a dedicated city physician, and his wife, Helen Thorne. The play delves into themes of love, loss, and the intersection of the spiritual with the earthly, exploring the tensions in their marriage as Esmerald grapples with the demands of his profession and the emotional weight of his responsibilities. At the start of the drama, we are introduced to Helen, who is anxiously waiting for her husband to return home from a long day filled with patients. There is an undeniable sense of unease as she expresses concern for their sick child, Laddie, while struggling with her role as a doctor's wife. As the scene unfolds, we witness the strained dynamic between Esmerald and Helen, marked by his dismissive attitude towards her worries. Meanwhile, a tragic accident involving Esmerald sets in motion a series of events that influence their lives profoundly, hinting at deep emotional and spiritual conflicts that will be explored throughout the story. The introduction of other characters, such as Mrs. Fayth and the presence of supernatural elements, suggests a broader commentary on life, love, and the nature of existence beyond the physical realm.
Molière
Le médecin malgré lui
"Le médecin malgré lui" by Molière is a three-act comedy first performed in 1666. When a woodcutter beats his wife, she takes revenge by convincing two servants that he's an eccentric doctor who refuses to admit his medical talents unless beaten with a stick. Forced into the role of physician, he must now treat a young woman who has mysteriously lost her speech. This farcical tale blends slapstick humor with sharp satire of medical charlatanism and human credulity.
Henrik Ibsen
Popolmalamiko : $b Dramo en kvin aktoj
"Popolmalamiko: Dramo en kvin aktoj" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in the late 19th century. The work revolves around Dr. Tomas Stockmann, who discovers that the water from the town's bathing facility is contaminated, posing a severe health risk to the community. As he grapples with the implications of his findings, tensions arise between personal convictions and societal pressures. At the start of the play, Dr. Stockmann shares a lively dinner with his family and friends, reflecting the optimism of the town and its new bathing establishment. However, this atmosphere shifts when Stockmann receives news that confirms his suspicions about the dangers of the water. The opening sets the stage for the central conflict: Dr. Stockmann must choose between the well-being of the townspeople and the financial interests that the bathing facility represents, leading to clashes with his brother, the local magistrate, and others who benefit from the status quo. This establishes the thematic exploration of truth, integrity, and the struggle against societal conformity that defines Ibsen's work.
Molière
Lääkäri vastoin tahtoansa: Kolminäytöksinen komedia
"Lääkäri vastoin tahtoansa: Kolminäytöksinen komedia" by Molière is a three-act comedy written during the 17th century. This play satirizes the medical profession and societal norms surrounding love, marriage, and authority, revealing the absurdities of human behavior through humor. The narrative unfolds in a light-hearted manner while also prompting reflections on personal agency and societal expectations. The plot centers around Geronte, a father who wishes to marry off his mute daughter, Lucinde, to a wealthy suitor, despite her love for Leandre. Sganarelle, the unwilling doctor, becomes a pawn in the plans of others, as he is humorously forced into the role of a physician despite his utter lack of medical knowledge. The comedic tension escalates as Sganarelle's absurdity is met with the determination of Leandre and Lucinde to be together. Amidst misunderstandings and farcical situations, the play highlights the conflict between parental authority and youthful desire, ultimately leading to the triumph of love over societal constraints.
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