Theme of Freedom

Themes in Henrik Ibsen's play: An Enemy of the People

More than any other kind of freedom, an every of the people tackled the freedom of expression. Through Dr. Stockmann, Ibsen seems to be crying against the society and its structures that deny people their freedom of expression.
To peter stockman, Dr. Stockman asks, “is it not the duty of a citizen to let the public share in any new ideas he may have?” (Pg 37)

And to Hovstad he says : “you are the editor and an editor controls his paper I suppose!” This last opinion is only party responded to by Hovstad when he says to Petra; “ou are perfectly right; but an editor cannot always act as he would prefer. He is often obliged to bow to the wishes of the public in unimportant matters”. Hovstad therefore introduces us to another aspect in the field of self expression. There are certain forces in the public that restricts an individual’s freedom.
Closely- following Hovstad’s words to Petra, we find him faced with difficult choices. Aslaksen says: “It is public opinion- the enlightened public – house holders and peoples of that kind who control the newspapers.” saying this, Aslaksen is using his power  over the householders and general public prevail upon Hovstad to reject Dr. Stockman’s article.  Hovstad is therefore not free to express his honest opinion and opts to join Aslaksen in support of peter Stockman rather than face his wrath.
Dr. Stockman, in contrast to Hovstad refuses to bow to the wish of Aslaksen and peter and insists on his freedom of expression.  This pits him against the compact majority and he ends up rejected as An Enemy of the People. He also loses his position as the medical officer of the baths, not to mention his ejection from his house.
Themes in Henrik Ibsen's play: An Enemy of the People