Ghosts Play Summary Analysis

Regine faces a difficult choice between her father's wishes and her own aspirations.

Engstrand suggests Regine live with him and work at his planned 'seamen's home'.

Pastor Manders attempts to guide Regine towards filial duty.

Mrs. Alving possesses books that Pastor Manders finds objectionable.

Manders emphasizes the importance of relying on societal norms and opinions.

Orphanage built by Mrs. Alving to memorialize her husband.

Manders discusses the necessity of insuring the orphanage's buildings.

Regine pleaded with the pastor for a position in town to avoid relocating.

Manders disapproved of Mrs. Alving's progressive books, clashing with traditional Catholic values.

Manders accused Mrs. Alving of neglecting her family duties.

Mrs. Alving explained she sent her son away for his own good due to her husband's questionable behavior.

Mrs. Alving's husband's affair had consequences including pregnancy, a potential scandal, and a damaged marriage.

Osvald's actions in the closing scene mirrored his father's misbehavior.

"Ghosts" symbolizes the haunting past actions affecting Mrs. Alving and Osvald.

Old ideas and beliefs, though seemingly dormant, continue to influence us.

Literature that challenges traditional beliefs and norms.

Pastor Manders' struggle with judging others' actions.

Pastor Manders' strict adherence to social norms and traditional values.

Engstrand's inner conflict that he confesses to Pastor Manders.

Regine's personal experiences that clash with Manders' perceptions.

The pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations.

Oswald's chronic illness, diagnosed as a 'canker of disease'.

Mrs. Alving refuses to insure the building, citing potential negative interpretations of her reliance on divine protection, fears of public slander, and the building's recent near-fire incident.

Engstrand is perceived as careless with matches, potentially posing a fire risk to the building, leading to Manders' remarks and concern.

Manders defends Engstrand, claiming he's trying to lead a better life despite past anxieties. He suggests Engstrand would benefit from Regina's return.

Oswald's appearance mirrors his father, startling Manders, and contrasting with the perception of Mrs.Alving.

Oswald criticizes traditional family life while promoting the fidelity and beauty of common-law marriages, surprising and upsetting Manders.

Manders displays disapproval towards artists in certain circles, criticizing the perceived immorality associated with them.

Mrs. Alving expresses her agreement with Oswald's insights regarding marital immorality and the perceived moral failings of men of social standing.

Manders asserts his role as a priest and friend to address Mrs. Alving's views on marriage and morality.

Manders argues that unhappiness doesn't relieve one from marital duty, but should be endured.

Memories and past opinions that linger, like a persistent feeling of familiarity or deja vu.

Engstrand defends his actions by arguing that helping others is proper.

Mrs. Alving is about to reveal family secrets when the orphanage bursts into flames.

Engstrand accuses Pastor Manders of starting the fire in the orphanage, blaming him for the arson.

Pastor Manders is devastated and worried about public opinion and scrutiny following the fire.

Mrs. Alving views the orphanage fire as purely financial, more concerned with losses than with the pain or tragedy.

Engstrand anticipates support for his seamen's home from the remaining resources.