The Debate Over Henrik Ibsen: Is He the Greatest Playwright After Shakespeare?

When it comes to the significance of playwrights such as Henrik Ibsen and William Shakespeare in the world of literature, opinions can range from admiration to controversy. However, considering certain contexts and characteristics, Ibsen might well be considered a greater playwright than Shakespeare, especially concerning the profound issues he addressed in his plays during a period when societal norms were beginning to shift.

Classical vs. Modern: Values and Their Evolution

Classical tragedy, a genre often associated with Shakespeare and other Elizabethan dramatists, presents a set of values that are the lens through which the actions of the play are understood. Heroes and tragic figures embody and reflect the values of their time, whether it be the heroic values of the state, its laws, beliefs, and unity, as seen in works like Hamlet, Othello, and A Midsummer Night's Dream. These plays are rooted in the social and political context of the English Elizabethan state, where the primary focus is on maintaining the stability and unity of the nation.

In contrast, Ibsen’s works, such as A Doll's House, The Master Builder, and Peer Gynt, are set in the 19th century. During this time, values began to shift, with the middle class taking precedence over the traditional values of the state. Ibsen's plays focus on the restrictions and constraints placed on women, such as being a wife, a mother, and a housekeeper, long before women were granted equal emancipation. These plays question the status quo and highlight the hypocrisy and inequality in family life, family security, and paternalism that prevailed during this era.

Shakespeare's Mastery and the Time Capsule Effect

While Shakespeare's mastery lies in his ability to create captivating characters and his poetic rhythm, his works are deeply rooted in the socio-political context of his time. For instance, the character of Richard III in Richard III is shown not only as a Duke and later as a King but also as a manipulative and tyrannical ruler. Despite the descriptive tyranny and villainy, the play's resolution calls for a new ruler who can bring justice and equality to all. This shift in perspective towards the end of the play suggests a hope for a better future, beyond mere condemnation.

Similarly, Shakespeare explored the flaws of monarchy and the corrupting influence of power, yet his works generally aimed to instill a sense of hope and reform for the future. Even in tragedies like Hamlet or Othello, the audience is left with room for redemption and improvement.

Ibsen's Profound Innovations and Societal Challenges

However, Ibsen's plays are characterized by a more direct and profound exploration of societal issues. A Doll's House, for example, challenges the prevailing norms of marriage and family life. When Nora, the protagonist, chooses to leave her husband and children because she cannot tolerate a loveless marriage, she sets off a scandal that exposes the hypocrisy and male domination that were deeply ingrained in society. This play not only questions the status of women but also brings to light the broader issue of personal autonomy and individual rights.

The mere fact that Ibsen’s works exposed and critiqued societal norms at such a deep level was deeply controversial and disruptive. His ability to write dialogue that felt authentic to the everyday lives of ordinary people in the Victorian era added to his dramatic power. This approach helped build an understanding of character through normal, everyday interactions, thereby making his plays timeless.

Historical Context and Societal Change

Historically, family structures were hierarchical and patriarchal, and social norms were rigid. As noted, practices such as selling wives in marketplaces were not uncommon until as recently as the early 20th century in some parts of the UK. This reality illustrates the stark contrast between the societal norms of Shakespeare's time and those of Ibsen's, highlighting the significant changes that had occurred by the late 19th century.

Ibsen's works not only exposed the hypocrisies of his time but also laid the groundwork for future social reforms. His commitment to highlighting the inner conflicts and the ethical dilemmas faced by his characters contributed to a broader dialogue about human rights and individual freedom. This is reflected in the posthumous rise of the feminist movement, where his plays are seen as precursors and inspirations.

Conclusion

While Shakespeare's works are celebrated for their poetic beauty and their depiction of timeless human conflicts, Ibsen's impact on the evolution of modern drama and social reform cannot be overstated. His plays were groundbreaking in their expose of the limitations and hypocrisies of his era, influencing the birth of the modern feminist and human rights movements. In this context, Ibsen can indeed be seen as a playwright who, more than his contemporaries, pushed the boundaries of what drama could achieve in terms of societal critique and human development. Thus, beyond just Shakespeare, Ibsen stands out as a significant figure in the annals of theatrical history.