An enemy of the people

Definition

An enemy of the people is a phrase used to describe someone who is viewed as a threat to the welfare and values of the society, often a central theme in the works of Henrik Ibsen. This term connects to Ibsen's exploration of individual versus societal norms, particularly in his play 'An Enemy of the People,' where a doctor fights against public opinion to reveal a dangerous environmental truth. The concept embodies themes of moral integrity, social responsibility, and the consequences of dissent in a conformist society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'An Enemy of the People' was first performed in 1882 and focuses on Dr. Stockmann's battle against a corrupt town that refuses to acknowledge the dangers of its polluted water supply.
2. The play highlights the conflict between individual conscience and majority rule, showcasing how public opinion can turn against those who seek truth.
3. Ibsen uses the character of Dr. Stockmann to illustrate the theme of sacrifice; he loses his reputation and relationships in pursuit of what he believes is right.
4. The term reflects broader social concerns about accountability and the responsibilities of individuals towards their community, resonating with audiences across different eras.
5. Ibsen's exploration of this term serves as a critique of societal pressures that prioritize conformity over moral courage, making it relevant to ongoing discussions about activism and truth-telling.

Review Questions

• How does Ibsen illustrate the conflict between individual morality and societal expectations in 'An Enemy of the People'?
  • In 'An Enemy of the People,' Ibsen presents Dr. Stockmann as a character who embodies individual morality, as he strives to expose the truth about the polluted water supply despite societal opposition. The conflict arises when Stockmann's ethical stance clashes with the townspeople's desire to protect their economic interests, illustrating how societal expectations can suppress truth and integrity. This struggle highlights Ibsen's commentary on the dangers of conformity and the moral responsibility individuals have towards their communities.
• Discuss how public opinion plays a role in shaping the events of 'An Enemy of the People' and its implications for personal integrity.
  • Public opinion serves as a powerful force in 'An Enemy of the People,' dictating not only how characters are perceived but also their actions throughout the play. Initially, Dr. Stockmann is hailed as a hero for discovering the health risks associated with the town's water; however, as he challenges established beliefs, public sentiment quickly shifts against him. This demonstrates how quickly personal integrity can be undermined by collective pressures and highlights Ibsen's warning about the consequences of prioritizing social conformity over truth.
• Evaluate Ibsen's critique of society through 'An Enemy of the People' regarding individual accountability and its relevance in today's world.
  • Ibsen’s critique in 'An Enemy of the People' remains highly relevant as it challenges contemporary audiences to reflect on individual accountability within society. The play demonstrates how individuals who confront uncomfortable truths often face backlash from their communities, mirroring current scenarios where whistleblowers or activists are ostracized for speaking out. By highlighting this tension between personal ethics and public sentiment, Ibsen compels audiences to consider their roles in promoting honesty and accountability, making his work timeless in its exploration of these critical issues.

Related terms

Ibsenism: A term used to describe the themes and techniques found in Henrik Ibsen's plays, emphasizing realism, social critique, and the exploration of personal and societal conflicts.

Public Opinion: The collective beliefs and attitudes of the general public that can heavily influence individual actions and societal norms, often serving as a critical backdrop in Ibsen's works.

Moral Dilemma: A situation in which a person must choose between two conflicting moral principles, which is a common theme in Ibsen's plays, showcasing the struggle between personal ethics and social expectations.