The Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka hosted a seminar on Thursday (November 6) shining a spotlight on two of Norway’s most influential playwrights, Henrik Ibsen and Jon Fosse. The discussion, which brought together theatre experts and cultural personalities, explored how these two playwrights, born a century apart, continue to influence global theatre with their unique explorations of human emotions and moral dilemmas.
Titled “A Conversation on Henrik Ibsen and Jon Fosse,” the session was led by Professor Ahmed Ahsanuzzaman from Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), who holds an MPhil and PhD in Ibsen Studies from the University of Oslo. During his presentation, he delved into the distinct storytelling techniques, emotional portrayals, and philosophical depths employed by both playwrights.
Professor Ahsanuzzaman highlighted the differences in style and themes between Henrik Ibsen and Jon Fosse, emphasizing how each delves into profound human emotions, loneliness, and the search for life’s meaning. While Ibsen tackles social and moral dilemmas using compelling narratives to expose societal hypocrisies and restrictions on individuals, Fosse takes a different approach, using silence, repetition, and internal monologues to depict characters grappling with inner turmoil.
The seminar attracted a diverse audience, including academics, theatre professionals, diplomats, and members of the cultural community, who shared their perspectives on the enduring impact of both playwrights’ works beyond Norway.
This event coincides with the upcoming celebration of the 200th birth anniversary of Henrik Ibsen in 2028. Widely regarded as the pioneer of modern drama, Ibsen’s plays are revered globally and have been staged in Bangladesh by prominent theatre groups in Bengali translations. His themes of equality, social justice, and personal liberties continue to resonate strongly in Bangladesh’s cultural and social milieu.
Jon Fosse, the laureate of the 2023 Nobel Prize in Literature, represents a contemporary force in Norwegian theatre. His minimalist approach, characterized by sparse dialogues, silence, and spiritual contemplation, has been commended for its contribution to redefining the language of modern drama.
The Norwegian Embassy highlighted that the seminar aimed to nurture cultural exchange and enhance appreciation for Norway’s rich literary and theatrical heritage in Bangladesh.