132 - The Enemy of the People, by Henrik Ibsen and Parallels to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Published: Aug. 7, 2020, 10 a.m.

A special episode today as Dr. Josh Sharfstein discusses Henrik Ibsen’s play, The Enemy of the People, with Dr. Leonardo Lisi, Hopkins professor and an expert in 19th century Scandinavian literature and philosophy. The play, which was written in 1882, draws parallels to the COVID-19 pandemic like the vilification of health officials whose guidance may run counter to political and economic interests. Lisi and Sharfstein discuss the play’s relevance to current events including attacks on health officials and social inequality. (Don’t worry: You do not have to have read this play to enjoy the discussion!)