Journal #2: How does Ibsen use the motif of decay, disease, illness, etc and to what effect? Use at least three quotes in the defense of you claim.
Ibsen uses the motif of decay, disease, and illness to show secrecy and suspicion. He does this show how these thoughts began to infest the mind and body. Like a parasite or cancer, the owner can only cure it. It is with them for life until they do so. Gregers is described with this disease and acknowledges it himself.
"Gregers: 'And besides-if I'm ever to go on living, I'll have to find a cure for my sick conscience'
Werle: It's never be sound. Your conscience has been sickly from childhood. It's an inheritance from your mother Gregers-the only inheritance she left you" (176).
From the text, it is known that Greger's mother had been jealous of Gina and suspected Werle being with other women. These thoughts became a disease that eventually killed her, according to Gregers. Like most diseases, they are contagious. Since Gregers and his mother were very close, it can be understood they discussed many thoughts together. Even after her death, Greger's is embodies with the same life sickness that he is determined to cure.
Relling explains to Gina Greger's condition, "He's suffering from an acute case of moralistic fever [...] it's a national disease, but it only breaks out now and then" (178).
After Greger's reveals the truth to Hjalmar, he becomes infested with it. Greger recovers and expects Hjalmer to also. However, in his bitter conflict he asks, "Do you think a man can recover so easily from the bitter cup I've just emptied!" (185). Medicine is most often bitter and drunk in cups. As if by letting out his suspicions he drank the cup, and hopes to heal soon enough.
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