Monologue

Mrs Alving Monologue from Ghosts

From Ghosts by Henrik Ibsen

female · anguished · 1:24 min

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I could never have borne it if I had not had my work. For I may truly say that I have worked! All the additions to the estate--all the improvements--all the labour-saving appliances, that Alving was so much praised for having introduced--do you suppose he had energy for anything of the sort?--he, who lay all day on the sofa, reading an old Court Guide! No; but I may tell you this too: when he had his better intervals, it was I who urged him on; it was I who had to drag the whole load when he relapsed into his evil ways, or sank into querulous wretchedness. (MANDERS: And it is to this man that you raise a memorial?) There you see the power of an evil conscience. (MANDERS: Evil--? What do you mean?) It always seemed to me impossible but that the truth must come out and be believed. So the Orphanage was to deaden all rumours and set every doubt at rest.

About this piece

Mrs. Alving reflects on her struggles and sacrifices in managing the estate and her husband's shortcomings, revealing her frustration and the burden she has carried.

40s · anger · identity · power · family · ambition

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