Cover of An Enemy of the People

An Enemy of the People

by Henrik Ibsen

First published
1882
Reading level
Easy
Price
Free

About the book

"An Enemy of the People" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1882 that explores the clash between truth and societal pressure. Dr. Thomas Stockmann discovers dangerous contamination in his town's new spa baths and decides to expose the threat to public health. His decision triggers fierce opposition from local leaders, including his own brother, who fear economic ruin. As the community turns against him, Stockmann faces professional and personal consequences for challenging the establishment and refusing to compromise his principles.

  • Social conflict
  • Physicians
  • Norwegian drama
  • Springs
  • Pollution

Updated September 2026. Public domain in the USA. Text and summary from Project Gutenberg eBook #2446. An Enemy of the People on Wikipedia.

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