Norwegian Embassy hosts talk on Ibsen and Fosse in Dhaka

The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka hosted a special talk on Henrik Ibsen and Jon Fosse on Thursday (6 November 2025), ahead of global celebrations marking the 200th birth anniversary of Henrik Ibsen in 2028.

The session featured Professor Ahmed Ahsanuzzaman of the Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) — an MPhil and PhD graduate in Ibsen Studies from the University of Oslo — who explored the contrasts and connections between the two Norwegian literary icons. The discussion drew participation from academics, cultural representatives, diplomats, and development partners.

While both Ibsen and Fosse are renowned Norwegian playwrights who examine profound human emotions, loneliness, and the search for meaning, their artistic approaches differ sharply. Ibsen addresses social and moral dilemmas through powerful narratives that expose hypocrisy and the constraints imposed by society. Fosse, by contrast, moves away from social commentary, using silence, repetition, and rhythmic inner monologues to portray characters torn by internal conflict.

Henrik Ibsen, a towering figure in world literature, remains deeply influential in Bangladesh's literary and theatre circles. Most of his works have been translated into Bangla, and leading theatre groups have staged his plays for decades. His enduring focus on equality, morality, and social justice continues to resonate strongly within Bangladesh's contemporary socio-political context.

The event also highlighted the growing interest in the works of Jon Fosse, winner of the 2023 Nobel Prize in Literature, whose introspective and minimalist style has brought new dimensions to modern drama. Participants expressed hope that Fosse's plays, like Ibsen's, will soon gain wider recognition and appreciation in Bangladesh.