An Enemy of the People

Ibsen was well known for using small pieces of dialogue to reveal important information about his characters. How does he use this tactic in An Enemy of the People? Give examples from the text.

How do the private beliefs of the play’s characters differ from their public actions? Is this a reflection of a larger message within the play?

Ibsen began his career writing largely fantastical plays in verse, before switching to realism once his popularity was established. Compare An Enemy of the People to one of Ibsen’s early works, such as Peer Gynt. How do they differ? What similarities can be found?

How does An Enemy of the People, which takes place in a single small town, examine themes relevant to society on a larger scale?a

Compare Ibsen’s version of the play to Arthur Miller’s 1950s adaptation. How did Miller update the play for a modern audience? Did he change any of the central themes or messages?

An Enemy of the People gained significant attention during the COVID-19 pandemic. How does the play’s reflect the societal issues that emerged at that time?

Thomas Stockmann is described by some critics as an allegory for Jesus Christ. How is this shown through the play’s plot? Is there any evidence that Ibsen intended his character to be read this way?

How does Ibsen use irony in An Enemy of the People? Support your answer with evidence from the text.