Henrik Ibsen

Henrik Ibsen is a book by Edmund Gosse. The contents list names chapters, among others, Childhood and Youth, Early Influences, Life in Bergen (1852-57) and The Satires (1857-67). The preface says that, despite analyses of Ibsen's works published in all languages, there exists no biographical study which brings together, on a general plan, what has been recorded of his adventures as an author.

The text says Hansen taught Ibsen Latin and theology, gently, perseveringly, without any striking results. The sexton at Skien, who helped in the lessons, is quoted calling the poet a quiet boy with a pair of wonderful eyes but with no sort of cleverness except an unusual gift for drawing. The text says Ibsen quitted Saxony and settled for three months in Copenhagen, where his reception was charmingly sympathetic. The text says it was believed that Ibsen's private correspondence might supply a key to the enigma of his character, and that his letters were collected and arranged while he was still alive.