Peer Gynt 05 1890

Theodor Severin Kittelsen created this black and white drawing to illustrate Henrik Ibsen’s play Peer Gynt. Kittelsen, who was working in Norway in the late 19th and early 20th century, tapped into the rising tide of nationalism, illustrating Norwegian folk tales and landscapes. In this image, he depicts a scene where Peer is being celebrated. Look at the varied reactions of the crowd – some are adoring, while others seem skeptical. Is this a genuine celebration or a critical commentary on fame? Peer Gynt is an interesting figure because he navigates different cultural identities, reflecting the complexities of national and personal identity at the time. The depiction of the crowd also invites us to consider how communities construct and celebrate their heroes.