Ellida as a New Woman: A Study of Ibsen's The Lady from the Sea

Abstract

Ellida is a 'self' seeking new woman in Ibsen'sLady from the Sea. She thinks 'self' precedes the other social relations. Ellida is a rebellious self-conscious womanwho struggles to break away from dominating and discriminating general currents of patriarchy, however, she is not against the institution of marriage. Her rebellion is an instrument in asserting her true identity as a human being. She is determined to end the dominating and discriminating patriarchal norms and currents through compromise, self-understanding, cooperation and dialogic relationship with the local patriarchy (her husband). But her compromise is not a complete surrender to patriarchy. It is the compromise which strengthens social harmony and coexistence. Ellida compromises to create a conducive environment to enjoy freedom, self-esteem and self-respect. Finally, Ellida becomes successful to emancipate herself through an untiring struggle within the society. Her emancipation gives a message to the world that freedom and self respect can be experienced within the society and that true freedom comes with the realization of familial and social responsibilities.