When We Dead Awaken by Henrik Ibsen

Description

When We Dead Awaken is the final play written by Norwegian dramatist Henrik Ibsen. First published in 1899, the play follows Arnold Rubek, an aging sculptor, who has achieved fame with his masterpiece, 'The Resurrection Day.' However, he feels unfulfilled in his personal life and artistic pursuits. While vacationing with his estranged wife, Maja, he encounters Irene, a former muse and model for his greatest work. Irene’s reappearance forces Arnold to confront his past choices, particularly the sacrifices he made for fame and artistic achievement. As the characters explore themes of love, regret, and the cost of ambition, their interactions grow increasingly intense. The play builds toward a symbolic and tragic climax in the mountains, where the characters seek transcendence but face existential despair. When We Dead Awaken is considered a philosophical work that grapples with the tension between life and art, human connection, and the pursuit of meaning. This is a translation by William Archer.

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