Here's my review from two years ago which makes me cringe: "Read this in high school. Think it was the Arthur Miller "translation." [Our teacher told us Miller did not read Norwegian, but got someone who did to do a literal translation which he then edited] In any case I don't remember the dramaturgy or the language, only the theme: the conflict between public health and making money in business. The latter should not be mistaken for "economic development." The latter term, as used by certain economists whom I respect, means that the quality of life is improved for all in a society. In that sense, "economic development" is not an enemy to public health, but making profits where and when you can often is. An early work about a whistle-blower, a cautionary tale."Re-read the book in Miller's adaptation last week and was overpowered. I'd forgotten the extra twist of tragedy, that Dr Stockmann's heroism has come close by the end of the short play to destroying not just his career but his family. What a terrible bind! Another turn of the screw I'd forgotten is that the protagonist is manipulated by others who turn his quest to their own ends. He wants to broadcast the truth to prevent disease; others want that broadcasting to bring down public officials. His father in law's meanness creates the appearance that Dr Stockmann is acting to drive down the value of stock in the anticipated spa-resort so that his relative can buy it for half-price.At least in To Kill a Mockingbird lawyer Finch's courage and civic virtue do not cause him to be run out of town, though his actions do directly endanger his children without his knowing it. Thank goodness they are saved.How many times in life must family and children be hostages to doing the right thing? Is Dr Stockmann an idiot or a hero? Or must some heroes be idiots? I would have to know much more about Ibsen and about Miller and have to reread Dostoyevsky to say where Ibsen or Miller place him. I'll say idiot-hero, admiringly.

How can this one be so different from Ghosts? I enjoyed Ghosts immensely because of it's poetic insight towards different points of view. Pillars is far more political, about resources and maybe double-dealings is the word? This would make a fantastic live theatre production, it's themes would seep into the audience causing lively debates about the how's and why's. In some ways, this play is relevant today and conversation about it can turn into a discussion about politics and even forms of media for disseminating information. A play like this is difficult for me to rate. 5 stars because there's really nothing wrong with it. 3 stars because of my mood in terms of when I read it (being right after Ghosts). In this play's introduction it said Ibsen wrote this in reply to his outrage at Ghosts being considered scandalous. He was in a tizzy because Ghosts wasn't well received by his public. Perhaps his courage to write this play in reply to Ghost's public reaction would garner it 5 stars? This play could spark politically charged discussions about current events so maybe keep it at 3 stars because politically, we're charged enough and need to become charged to create a healthier way.

From BBC radio 4 - Drama:Alfred Molina, Adam Godley, Susannah Fielding, Ian Ogilvy and James Callis are directed by Martin Jarvis in Henrik Ibsen's riveting 1882 thriller.A small Norwegian spa town relies on the local spring for its prosperity, but Dr Thomas Stockmann is concerned the waters may be contaminated. Could disease be spreading? If so, would the community's livelihood be jeopardised?Episode 2 of 2Alfred Molina, Adam Godley, Susannah Fielding and Ian Ogilvy lead an all start cast. Dr Stockmann has discovered the town's spa-baths are contaminated. How will this affect local business interests? Will Stockmann be publicly vilified?Martin Jarvis directs this new version by Rebecca Lenkiewicz of Henrik Ibsen's dynamic thriller. Will campaigning courage turn into self-righteous fanaticism? Vested interest lives on and this timeless 1882 drama is as up to date now as when it was first performed.Townpeople: Moira Quirk, Elizabeth Knowleden, Jean Gilpin, Alan Shearman, Neil Dickson, Ifan MeredithThis new version of the play by Rebecca Lenkiewicz.Specially composed music: A-MnemonicDirector: Martin Jarvis A Jarvis and Ayres production for BBC Radio 4.https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09x...