Introduction
“An Enemy of the People” is a classic social drama written by Henrik Ibsen in 1882. At its heart is a moral dilemma faced by the protagonist, Dr. Thomas Stockmann. As the town doctor, Stockmann is tasked with determining the safety of the town’s public baths, which are the source of the town’s prosperity. When Stockmann discovers the baths are polluted and must be closed, he is met with fierce opposition from the town’s leaders and citizens. The play is a study of power, corruption, and morality, and we explore these themes through Stockmann’s journey as a leader.
Analysis of the Figure of Dr. Stockman
The character of Dr. Stockmann is complex. On the one hand, he is an idealist and a lone upholder of moral principles and the welfare of the community. Despite the opposition he faces, Stockmann is unyielding in his commitment to the truth and his belief that the town must take responsibility for its actions (Ibsen 12-14). He is a passionate advocate for the safety of the people, and he is willing to risk his reputation and his livelihood to do what he believes is right.
At the same time, Stockmann needs to be a more effective leader. His idealism and unwavering commitment to the truth make him unable to compromise, and he needs help to rally support for his stance effectively. He is unable to see beyond his own values and beliefs and is unable to understand or accept the perspectives of others (Ibsen 12-24). As a result, his efforts to protect the public are met with resistance and ultimately fail.
Dr. Stockmann as an Idealist and Lone Upholder of Moral Principle
One of the most powerful moments in the play comes in a speech given by Dr. Stockmann, in which he passionately defends his stance and proclaims his moral righteousness. Through a close reading of said speech in Act IV, it becomes clear that while he may be an uncompromising champion of truth, his lack of tact and inability to sway public opinion ultimately render him an ineffectual leader. He declares: “What sort of truths are those that the majority is wont to take up? Truths so full of years that they are decrepit. When a truth is as old as that, it is in a fair way to become a lie, gentlemen” (Ibsen 28). In his speech, Stockmann powerfully articulates his commitment to the truth and his willingness to stand up for what is right, even if it means being seen as an enemy of the people.
This speech demonstrates Stockmann’s idealism and courage, as well as his unwavering commitment to doing what he believes is right, even in the face of opposition. At the same time, this speech also reveals Stockmann’s ineffectiveness as a leader. His unwillingness to compromise or understand other perspectives makes him unable to effectively persuade others to agree with him (Ibsen 28-34). His idealism blinds him to the reality of the situation and the consequences of his actions.
Conclusion
Overall, the character of Dr. Stockmann in An Enemy of the People serves as a powerful symbol of both idealism and ineffectuality. His unwavering commitment to truth and justice is admirable, yet his inability to compromise and understand other perspectives ultimately renders him unable to effect real change. Through Stockmann’s story, the play explores the complex nature of morality and power and the difficult choices faced by those who seek to do what is right.
Work Cited
Ibsen, Henrik. An Enemy of the People. Gildan Media LLC aka G&D Media, 2022.
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