An Enemy of the People

Henrik Ibsen, a Norwegian playwright, wrote An Enemy of the People (original title in Norwegian: En folkefiende) in 1882. Ibsen expressed some scepticism toward his protagonist, implying that his passion to speak the truth may have gone too far.The medical officer of a recently opened spa in a small town is Dr. Thomas Stockmann. According to Dr. Stockmann, there may be bacteria in the spa water. The local newspapers editor makes the decision not to publish a story that questions how the spa treats its water.Dr. Stockmanns father-in-law believes the piece is a sophisticated hoax when it is published. The publication aims to take on the local administration and reveal its corruption.In order to comfort the audience, Dr. Peter Stockmann makes an appearance and offers a statement of his own. The towns residents are going to hear Dr. Stockmann read his water report. Respected local Aslaksen is chosen to preside over the assembly.Katrine worries that the populace will push her father-in-law out of town, but he has pledged to stay and protect the community.