The Master Builder

The Master Builder by Henrik Ibson is about Halvard Solness, a middle-aged master builder of a small town in Norway who has become a successful architect of some distinction and a local reputation. One day whilst at home talking with his friend Doctor Herdal, Solness is visited by Hilda Wangel, a young woman of 23, whom Doctor Herdal recognizes from a recent trip that he had taken. Excerpt: "KNUT BROVIK. [Rises suddenly, as if in distress, from the table; breathes heavily and laboriously as he comes forward into the doorway.] No, I can't bear it much longer! KAIA. [Going up to him.]"