This metaphorical quote suggests that life involves a continuous internal struggle against one's own inner demons, doubts, or societal pressures. It frames existence as an ongoing battle to maintain one's integrity and purpose against challenging forces, both internal and external.
Quote by Henrik Ibsen: “To be alive is to be at war with trolls in mind and heart.”
To be alive is to be at war with trolls in mind and heart.
Insight
Historical Context
The mid-19th century in Europe was a time of rapid intellectual and social change, with individuals confronting traditional morality and the rise of psychology's influence.
About the Author
Norwegian playwright considered the father of modern drama. His plays, including A Doll's House, Hedda Gabler, and An Enemy of the People, challenged social conventions around marriage, women's roles, and political conformity with a directness that shocked nineteenth-century audiences.
View all quotes by Henrik Ibsen