The pillars of society

Definition

The pillars of society refer to the fundamental structures that support and uphold the social, political, and economic fabric of a community. These pillars often include institutions like family, education, religion, government, and the economy, which collectively shape the values, norms, and functionality of a society. In modern realist drama, particularly in the works of influential playwrights, these pillars are examined to reveal the underlying tensions and conflicts within a community.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Henrik Ibsen is often regarded as the father of modern realism in theatre, using his plays to critique the pillars of society such as marriage and family roles.
2. Ibsen's works frequently challenge traditional values and provoke audiences to question societal norms, especially regarding gender roles.
3. In Ibsen's play 'A Doll's House,' the protagonist Nora Helmer represents the struggles against societal expectations placed upon women, showcasing the fragility of the family pillar.
4. The themes of morality and individualism in Ibsen's plays reflect broader social changes during the 19th century as societies began to grapple with modernity.
5. Ibsen's exploration of psychological depth in characters reveals how deeply entrenched societal pillars can shape personal identity and conflict.

Review Questions

• How do Ibsen's plays illustrate the conflicts between individuals and the pillars of society?
  • Ibsen's plays highlight the struggles individuals face when their personal desires conflict with societal expectations. For example, in 'A Doll's House,' Nora's journey towards self-discovery reveals how rigid family structures can suffocate individual identity. Through this lens, Ibsen critiques not only marriage but also broader societal norms that dictate behavior, making his work a powerful commentary on the need for personal authenticity against societal pressures.
• Analyze how Ibsen's portrayal of women challenges traditional views on family and marriage within the context of the pillars of society.
  • Ibsen portrays women as complex characters with their own aspirations, contrasting sharply with traditional views that often reduced them to subordinate roles. In 'A Doll's House,' Nora's awakening represents a direct challenge to patriarchal norms embedded within the family pillar. By giving voice to women's struggles for independence and self-fulfillment, Ibsen calls into question established social structures, urging audiences to rethink their beliefs about marriage and gender roles.
• Evaluate the significance of realism in Ibsen's work as it relates to the critique of societal pillars during his time.
  • The significance of realism in Ibsen's work lies in its ability to reflect authentic experiences that resonate with contemporary audiences while exposing the flaws within societal pillars. By focusing on relatable characters and their dilemmas, Ibsen invites critical reflection on issues like morality, gender inequality, and familial obligations. His realistic portrayal encourages viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about their societies, prompting broader conversations about reform and the evolution of social values in a rapidly changing world.

Related terms

Realism: A movement in art and literature that aims to represent everyday life accurately, focusing on ordinary characters and realistic settings.

Social Critique: An examination and evaluation of societal structures and norms, often highlighting issues of injustice or inequality.

Dramatic Irony: A literary device where the audience knows more about a situation than the characters do, creating tension and engagement.