Henrik Ibsen

Henrik Johan Ibsen (March 20, 1828–May 23, 1906) was an extremely influential Norwegian playwright who was largely responsible for the rise of the modern realistic drama. It is said that Ibsen is the most frequently performed dramatist in the world after Shakespeare.

Related Topics:
March 20 - 1828 - May 23 - 1906 - Norwegian - Playwright - Realistic - Drama - Shakespeare

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

His plays were considered scandalous to many of his era, when Victorian values of family life and propriety largely held sway in Europe and any challenge to them was considered immoral and outrageous. Ibsen's work examined the realities that lay behind many facades, which his society did not want to see.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ibsen largely founded the modern stage by introducing a critical eye and free inquiry into the conditions of life and issues of morality. Prior to him, Victorian-era plays were expected to be moral dramas with noble protagonists pitted against darker forces. Every drama was expected to result in a morally appropriate conclusion, meaning that goodness was to bring happiness, and immorality only pain. Ibsen challenged this notion and the beliefs of his times and shattered the illusions of his audiences.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~