Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Culture in Norway
Left: Ibsen’s study. Top right: Henrik Ibsen in the study. The flat was very modern for its time. Above: The blue lounge.
Step behind the scenes of Henrik Ibsen’s life Henrik Ibsen’s name is renowned to a degree not far off Shakespeare’s. While his plays, including classics such as A Doll’s House and Peer Gynt, have been around for generations, they are still as relevant today as in the 1800s, albeit perhaps less controversial now. Step into the life of Henrik Ibsen at the Ibsen Museum in Oslo, the place he lived for 11 years and where he wrote his last few masterpieces. By Helene Toftner | Photos: Ibsenmuseet
Ibsen was one of the most controversial figures of his time and his plays are still touring the world with great anticipation. In Oslo, you can explore his own real world at the Ibsen Museum. Beautifully located by the Royal Palace, it has been fully restored to its original state, including the study where he wrote his last two pieces. “The guided tours give visitors behind-the-scenes insight into his life, to use a theatrical term, and you can recognise many of the themes 36 | Issue 91 | August 2016
in the plays throughout his home,” says consultant Bergljot Øyrehagen Geist, adding with somberness: “His wife, however, didn’t go back to his study after he passed away as she was certain she could hear him writing.” While the flat is the jewel of the crown, you are advised not to miss the three exhibitions. The permanent Henrik Ibsen – On the contrary exhibition is a testament to his last words before
passing away, which were indeed ‘on the contrary’. Those in the know have described this as a very accurate depiction of his personality, as he would often engage with and encourage discussions and scepticism in regards to so-called accepted truths, something that is apparent in his books. The second exhibition is Beatles in a Doll’s House, a humorous approach, while the third showcases the special relationship between Ibsen and famous artist Edvard Munch.
For more information and opening times, please visit: www.norskfolkemuseum.no/ ibsenmuseet