Henrik Ibsen's Ghosts

Theatre Classics

By: Henrik Ibsen, Stephen Mulrine

Narrated by: Caroline John, Trevor Cooper, Frank Jarvis, Helen Oakleigh, Grant Gillespe

Controversy and hidden pasts are suddenly and painfully exposed as wealthy widow Mrs Alving prepares to open a new orphanage in memory of her husband. Her treasured son Oswald’s return from Paris and her relationship with old friend Pastor Manders are no longer the source of joy they once were, as secrets are turned into a frightening and desperate reality.

First published in 1881 and performed the following year, Ibsen paints a bleak picture of the sacred institution of marriage and the family, and with its open discussion of the taboo subjects of free love, incest, and venereal disease, it is hardly surprising that this masterpiece caused such a hostile reaction with audiences and critics alike.

©2010 Stephen Mulrine (P)2010 Fantom Films

Interesting

I decided to listen to this because of its reference in Logicomix, a book about logicians' (especially Bertrand Russell's) search for the foundation. In the book, it was portrayed as an interesting transition from the past to the present where things were more clear before than are now. It was a great way to understand that different social atmosphere. While in the parent's generation, there were rules and moral codes that ought to be followed; yet, when it comes to the children's generation, nothing is clear anymore. The man who was considered evil becomes good while a seemingly virtuous woman turns into a sinful being. Nonetheless, it was very interesting.

Sad

Not a ghost story, but a story about the skeletons in family closets. Dont want to spoil the story, but due to the skill of the actors and Ibsen's writing, you should feel somewhat sad at the end.

Very interesting with lots to discuss

Our reading group just finished. There's a lot to read between the lines leading to lively discussions. The story went very fast.