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41 pages 1 hour read

An Enemy of the People

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1882

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Book Brief

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Henrik Ibsen

An Enemy of the People

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1882
Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Norwegian Town • 1880s

Publication Year

1882

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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Super Short Summary

An Enemy of the People follows Dr. Thomas Stockmann, who discovers that the water in a new medicinal spa in his hometown is contaminated and making people sick. Determined to reveal the truth, he faces backlash from the townspeople, including his brother, the mayor, who fear economic ruin. Thomas's efforts to publicize the contamination lead to social ostracism and personal losses. References to eugenics.

Challenging

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Henrik Ibsen’s An Enemy of the People is praised for its exploration of truth, public opinion, and integrity, remaining relevant across eras. Reviewers commend its strong characterization and moral complexity, although some critique the dialogue as heavy-handed. Despite occasional criticisms of its didactic tone, it is widely regarded as a compelling and thought-provoking work.

Who should read this

Who Should Read An Enemy of the People?

Readers who enjoy Henrik Ibsen's An Enemy of the People typically appreciate intense social drama and themes of moral integrity versus public pressure. Fans of Arthur Miller's The Crucible or Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged may find its exploration of individualism and societal conflict compelling.

Character List

Dr. Thomas Stockmann

The chief medical officer for the town's Baths, who is known for his principled stands and idealistic nature. He returns to his hometown after working as a rural doctor and faces challenges as he seeks to share his findings about the Baths.

Thomas’s practical and protective wife, who prioritizes her family's safety and stability amidst the turmoil surrounding her husband. She balances her husband's idealism with her own sense of reasonableness.

Thomas and Katherine's independent and strong-willed adult daughter, who works as a schoolteacher and supports her father's quest for truth. She is frustrated by the restrictions in her teaching environment.

The two younger children of the Stockmann family who are spirited and sometimes rebellious. They often get into trouble but exhibit a youthful embodiment of their father's independent spirit.

The mayor of the town and Thomas's brother, who is influential and protective of the town’s economic interests. He is involved in the politics surrounding the Baths and has a complex relationship with his brother.

Katherine's adoptive father and the owner of a local tannery, known for his wealth and focus on preserving his economic interests. His views on the pollution controversy are influenced by his business stakes.

The editor of the People’s Messenger, the town’s primary newspaper, who initially supports Thomas for his own political ends. He is portrayed as politically radical but also strategic in his decisions.

An associate at the newspaper who engages in performative radicalism and seeks a position in local government. He is involved in the newspaper’s activities and has connections to political developments.

The owner of the printing press and a prominent community member who advocates for moderation. His influence and alignment with public opinion affect the town’s stance on issues concerning the Baths.

Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Norwegian Town • 1880s

Publication Year

1882

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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