everything demolished there. In due time
he is repudiated by the grocer, the baker, and the candlestick
maker. The landlord, of course, is very sorry for him. The Stockmanns
have always paid their rent regularly, but it would injure his
reputation to have such an avowed rebel for a tenant. The grocer
is sorry, and the butcher, too; but they can not jeopardize their
business. Finally the board of education sends expressions of
regret: Petra is an excellent teacher and the boys of Stockmann
splendid pupils, but it would contaminate the other children were
the Stockmanns allowed to remain in school. And again Dr. Stockmann
learns a vital lesson. But he will not submit; he will be strong.
Dr. Stockmann. Should I let myself be beaten
off the field by public opinion, and the compact majority, and
such deviltry? No, thanks. Besides, what I want is so simple,
so clear and straightforward. I only want to drive into the heads
of these curs that the Liberals are the worst foes of free men;
that party-programs wring the necks of all young living truths;
that considerations of expediency turn morality and righteousness
upside down, until life is simply hideous. . . . I don't see any
man free and brave enough to dare the Truth. . . . The strongest
man is he who stands most alone.
A confession of faith, indeed, because Henrik Ibsen, although recognized as a great dramatic
