An Enemy of the People

Description

This play was written as a response to the public outrage generated by Ibsen’s previously published Ghost for criticizing the hypocrisy of the Victorian age. The genre of the 5-act play is not obvious to the reader – and it wasn’t for the playwright himself either, Ibsen remarking that the play features many traits that would make it a comedy, but it is based on a serious idea.

The main character of the play is Dr. Stockmann, who discovers that the new baths that have just been inaugurated in his town have water contaminated with a fatal disease and informs the town leadership, requesting them to remedy the problem and close down the baths. The Mayor of the town, who happens to be Stockman’s brother, too, does not give credit to the report about the contamination and refuses to close down the facilities for fear of making the town bankrupt without the income from the baths.

Dr. Stockmann, unwilling to accept his brother’s decision, tries to inform the public about the problem, but the Mayor intervenes explaining how the costs of the repairs would ruin the town tries to take his case to the people, while also discrediting the doctor for his fanciful ideas and declaring him public enemy. Disappointed and outraged, Stockmann prepares to leave the town, but in the last minute he changes his mind and decides to stay and fight for his ideas and ideals.

The ideas that motivate Dr. Stockmann resonates with most of us – if you have ever felt you are the only reasonable person in a situation, you can surely identify with the doctor. Though plays are for being acted out, this Ibsen masterpiece makes a powerful impression on those reading it as well, so if you are looking for a great, thought-provoking read, you have to get your hands on An Enemy of the People.
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