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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.

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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