Role of Captain Horster

When one tries to take stock of Horster in the play An Enemy of the People, it is quite easy to form a low opinion of him. He is one of the characters who are seen least on stage, and even when on stage he speaks very few words. He is presented to us at the start of the play only to disappear until towards the end. This may derail us to think that he is unimportant. That however is inaccurate. A close scrutiny of the role he plays reveals how much value Ibsen has invested in him.
     To start with, Captain Horster enhances Ibsen’s style. He is used first of all symbolically to represent a section of the society that is consistent, resolute and which values truth and personal affections above material possessions. This fact is clearly seen when Horster, unlike many other characters, hold on to Dr.Stockmann even at the risk of losing his job. He therefore signifies that there are people in the society who would rather die for the truth. Another style that he enhances in the play is contrast. He is juxtaposed with such other characters as Hovstad, Billing and Aslaksen.
    Horster can also be credited for enabling effective characterization. This is because much of characterization is brought out through contrast. It is therefore easy to recognize for instance Billings’ inconsistency in the light of Horster’s consistent character. The materialistic character of such others as Hovstad and Peter Stoickmann are also shown clearly in light of Horster’s character.
    In addition, it is in Horster that the resolution of the play is built. Ibsen finds it necessary to include Horster in order to save the situation.