Discover books similar to "An Enemy of the People"

An Enemy of the People cover

Henrik Ibsen

An Enemy of the People

3.89

"An Enemy of the People" by Henrik Ibsen is a thought-provoking and powerful play that explores themes of individualism, morality, and the corrupting influence of power. The story revolves around Dr. Thomas Stockmann, a respected physician and the son of the mayor in a small Norwegian town, who discovers that the town's popular baths, which are the economic lifeblood of the community, are contaminated by toxic waste. At first, Stockmann is hailed as a hero for his discovery, but when he insists that the baths must be closed for extensive and costly repairs, he quickly becomes an enemy of the people. The town's leaders, including his own brother, the mayor, conspire against him, and he is ostracized by the community. Stockmann's unwavering commitment to the truth and his refusal to compromise his principles, even in the face of overwhelming opposition, make him a compelling and sympathetic character. Ibsen's masterful use of irony and his nuanced portrayal of the characters' motivations and weaknesses add depth and complexity to the story. The play raises important questions about the nature of democracy, the role of the individual in society, and the dangers of groupthink and conformity. It is a powerful exploration of the tension between the individual and the community, and the sacrifices that must be made in the pursuit of truth and justice. "An Enemy of the People" is a timeless and relevant work that continues to resonate with audiences today. It is a must-read for anyone interested in literature, social justice, and the human condition. Ibsen's brilliant writing and his ability to tackle complex issues with nuance and sensitivity make this play a true classic of modern literature...

List of books similar to "An Enemy of the People":

The Crucible cover

Arthur Miller

The Crucible

Like 'An Enemy of the People', 'The Crucible' explores themes of society, morality, and individuality. Set during the Salem witch trials, Miller's play examines the destructive power of mass hysteria and the dangers of sacrificing truth for the sake of social conformity.

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A Doll's House cover

Henrik Ibsen

A Doll's House

If you enjoyed Ibsen's exploration of societal expectations and individual freedom in 'An Enemy of the People', you may also like 'A Doll's House'. This play follows Nora, a seemingly content housewife, as she confronts the limitations of her role in a patriarchal society and ultimately chooses to leave her husband and children in search of her own identity.

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The Jungle cover

Upton Sinclair

The Jungle

If you were drawn to the social critique in 'An Enemy of the People', you may enjoy 'The Jungle' by Upton Sinclair. This novel exposes the harsh working conditions and exploitation of immigrant laborers in the meatpacking industry in Chicago. Both works shed light on the darker side of society and the importance of standing up for what is right.

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1984 cover

George Orwell

1984

Like 'An Enemy of the People', '1984' explores the dangers of a society that values conformity over individuality. In Orwell's dystopian novel, a low-ranking bureaucrat in a totalitarian regime begins to question his own reality and the propaganda he has been fed. Both works challenge the reader to think critically about the power structures that govern their lives.

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Brave New World cover

Aldous Huxley

Brave New World

In 'Brave New World', Huxley creates a dystopian society where conformity and happiness are prioritized over individuality and freedom. Like 'An Enemy of the People', this novel challenges the reader to consider the consequences of sacrificing truth and individuality for the sake of societal stability.

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The Trial cover

Franz Kafka

The Trial

If you were intrigued by the themes of power and corruption in 'An Enemy of the People', you may enjoy 'The Trial' by Franz Kafka. This novel follows a man who is arrested and prosecuted by a mysterious and all-powerful authority, but never told what his crime is. Both works explore the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of individual agency.

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The Plague cover

Albert Camus

The Plague

Like 'An Enemy of the People', 'The Plague' explores the ways in which a community responds to a crisis. Set in a North African town that is ravaged by a deadly epidemic, Camus' novel examines the human condition and the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity. Both works challenge the reader to consider their own values and beliefs in the face of uncertainty.

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The Stranger cover

Albert Camus

The Stranger

In 'The Stranger', Camus explores the themes of alienation and the absurdity of life, much like Ibsen does in 'An Enemy of the People'. The novel follows an aimless young man who commits a senseless murder and is subsequently alienated from society. Both works challenge the reader to question the values and beliefs that govern their lives.

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