Theme of Materialism

Theme of Materialism in An Enemy of the People
Materialism is well depicted in an enemy of the people as an excessive interest in or desire for money and possessions. It is an intensive if not exaggerated belief on the importance or possessions. Embodied in the society and most specifically the members of the party in Peter Stockmann’s municipality is a materialistic culture. The whole town is rallied against Dr. Stockmann because of the economic status of the town to an extent of ignoring an impending health crisis for the town.

Peter Stockman, the mayor of the town is quick to assess the economical and technical implications of Dr. Stockmann’s findings and shows little or no regard to the health of the inhabitants of the town. He says in page 35.
I made an excuse this morning to go and see the town engineer and as a thing we might perhaps have to consider same time later on.
    In another instance when Hovstad and Billings are chatting on getting rid of Aslaksen, who seemingly threatens to block their assault to the local government. They say:-
Hovstad: Do you know anyone else who will allow some credit for our paper and printing bill?
Billings: it is an infernal nuisance that we don’t posses the necessary capital.
It is in this understanding of their financial situation that Hovstad and Billings would rather fight against Dr. Stockman’s truth.
            Considering that three illustrations would suffice, we can focus on one more person who appears materialistic.
    Morten Kiil, the owner of the tanneries of the molledal is one rich man who overestimates the value of money and material possession. He gives to Dr. Stockman and attempts to buy him over, making him denounce his discovery and thereby declare Morten kiil as a clean man this attempt is however met by Dr. Stockmann’s assertive stance. His family therefore gives us a glimpse of an on materialistic society. Hovstad goes on as far as to declare that Dr. Stockmann is swayed by his heart and not his head in other words he would rather die poor for his truth than compromise it for material possession.
 Theme of Materialism in An Enemy of the People