Kærlighedens Komedie
1865
A play written in the mid-19th century. The narrative revolves around complex relationships and societal expectations, particularly focusing on the characters Fru Halm and her daughters, alongside several young suitors and their romantic entanglements. As it delves into the themes of love, marriage, and the interplay between individual desires and social norms, the work offers a deep exploration of human emotions and the comedic aspects of love. At the start of the play, we are introduced to an array of characters gathered in a beautiful garden, suggesting a relaxed yet vibrant summer atmosphere. The dialogue reveals the complex dynamics between the characters, including flirtations, aspirations, and social commentary on love and relationships. Specifically, Falk, a young author, grapples with his feelings for Svanhild, another main character, while also engaging in banter with the other suitors and their companions. This opening sets the stage for an exploration of love's many facets, intertwined with humor and societal critique, hinting at the struggles and choices that will unfold as the story progresses.
Editions
X-Ray
“first condition of a happy marriage is the absence of love, and the first condition of an enduring love is the absence of marriage.””
— Henrik Ibsen
“Both agree in repudiating "marriage for love"; but the idealist repudiates it in the name of love, the critic in the name of marriage. Love, for the idealist Ibsen, is a passion which loses its virtue when it reaches its goal, which inspires only while it aspires, and flags bewildered when it attains. Marriage, for the critic Ibsen, is an institution beset with pitfalls into which those are surest to step who enter it blinded with love.””
— Henrik Ibsen
“To "those about to marry," Ibsen therefore says in effect, "Be sure you are not in love!" And to those who are in love he says, "Part!””
— Henrik Ibsen
“And though I have sailed my boat hard aground,O, it was so grand to be sailing!””
— Henrik Ibsen
“About the white and shining milky way? Man may not there the milk of fortune skim, Nor is the butter of it meant for him.””
— Henrik Ibsen
“Let others emulate the eagle's flight, Life in the lowly plains may be as bright.””
— Henrik Ibsen
“The truth is that there are two men in Ibsen”
— Henrik Ibsen
“This Love of ours, ardent and glad and proud,Pure of disease's taint and age's cloud,Shall die the young and glorious thing it is!””
— Henrik Ibsen
“My faith is, Love will never pass away"”
— Henrik Ibsen
