Synopsis of Act 3 An Enemy of the People

Synopsis of Act 3 An Enemy of the People

This act, set in the editorial office of the people’s messenger traces the changing popularity of Dr. Stockmann’s research. Hovstad and Billing discuss how powerful Dr. Stockmann’s writing is. The two think of the possible revolution that would be covered by their findings. Whether the mayor agrees with the report or not will bring him in opposition to one group or the other. On one hand, the big stockholder’s would not want the changes implemented, while the homeowners would demand the implementation.
    Dr. Stockmann enters and promptly declares that the article should be put into print. Aslaksen would oversee the printing personally, ensuring that every word is held with utmost care. Although Aslaksen agrees to print the story, he still insists that everything must be done with moderation. Billing is the most excited of them all and would rather act radically, releasing bombshell after bombshell. He tells Aslaksen to his face that he is infernally timid. Hovstad declares that he is not like a weather cock to be turned on every direction by the wind.
    The discussion rises to a high tempo and Aslaksen, who is adamant on his moderation principles hints that he may back the authorities. This throws Hovstad and Billing back and they lament that they don’t have the capital to print their paper and run business. It dawns on them that they would still rely on Aslaksen.

Hovstad holds a brief chat with Petra. She has decided not to translate a certain book (probably the bible or another religious book)
Hovstad betrays the journalists’ inability to stand for their course. He is partly motivated by his attraction to Petra and party for the financial gains he would have, not to mention the fame of being at the center of a revolution. This angers Petra who walks out on them.
    The foreshadow presented by Hovstad falling out with Petra, follows closely. Peter stockman comes to the editorial office and talks to both Hovstad and Aslaksen carefully and craftily, he accuses Dr. Stockmann of malice and points out the loss the town would suffer if the proposed changes were implemented.
    When Dr. Stockmann arrives to see his manuscripts in print and to proof read it, he is surprised at how fast things have changed. All have suddenly turned against him. He realizes that they had compromised their stand because of peter stockmann’s influence.
    Mrs. Stockmann comes in timely enough to see that tables have been turned against her husband. In retaliation, she declares that she would stand by him and let the children join him in his quest to declare the truth to save the society.

CRITICAL LESSONS from Act 3 Synopsis

1. We learn of the inconsistency of the journalists. In the light of the mayor and Aslaksen’s influence, Hovstad and Biling are easily turned against Dr. Stockmann. In contrast, Peter and Dr. Stockmann remain consistent in their points of view and responses.
2.  We question the independence of the press after learning that it is the subscribers, house holders and politicians who control the newspaper.
3. Dr Stockmann realizes that he had underrated his brother the mayor’s influence. He had also put too much faith in the newspaper men.
4. Dr Stockmann, still asserting that he holds the responsibility to tell the truth refuses to bow. His wife and children would stand by him to ensure that the public is fed with the truth.