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A small town is scandalized after a medical officer exposes its polluted water supply. An Enemy of the People, by Henrik Ibsen, examines the consequences of one man’s unwavering commitment to the truth. The story is a commentary on Ibsen’s own work, which was heavily criticized for its realistic approach.
About the author
Henrik Ibsen (1828-1906) was a Norwegian playwright who thrived during the late nineteenth century. He began his professional career at age 15 as a pharmacist’s apprentice. He would spend his free time writing plays, publishing his first work Catilina in 1850, followed by The Burial Mound that same year. He eventually earned a position as a theatre director and began producing his own material. Ibsen’s prolific catalogue is noted for depicting modern and real topics. His major titles include Brand, Peer Gynt and Hedda Gabler.
Summary
Dr. Thomas Stockmann’s personal and professional life is attacked after he declares a town’s water supply is contaminated, which threatens the success of their economy. Ibsen tackles the corruption of local politicians, and their effect on the people.
After thorough examination, Dr. Thomas Stockmann discovers an unsettling truth about his town’s water system. He believes its polluted and attempts to alert the proper authorities. Yet, this revelation threatens the town’s economy, which depends on the success of its spa business. Stockmann’s brother is the mayor and wants the story hidden from the public. He conspires with other politicians to protect their investment, despite the doctor’s warning.
With An Enemy of the People, Ibsen criticizes the selfish nature of man. It centers a powerful minority that chooses profit over people. The writer exposes the dangers of honesty in a world fueled by lies.
With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of An Enemy of the People is both modern and readable.
