Readers interested in Scandinavian literature can join Vesterheim’s October Bokprat from home when the Decorah museum hosts a free online discussion of Henrik Ibsen’s The Wild Duck on Oct. 28, 2026.
The Zoom session is scheduled for 7 to 8:15 p.m. Central time, and registration is required. Participants who sign up through Vesterheim’s event page can also add the program to Google Calendar, iCalendar, Outlook 365 or Outlook Live.
A monthly discussion of Scandinavian writing
Bokprat is Vesterheim’s recurring online book-group discussion focused on Scandinavian authors and Scandinavian life. The October gathering will examine Ibsen’s 1884 play, giving participants a remote way to take part in the conversation.
Vesterheim describes The Wild Duck as a realistic work, though literary scholars have also noted its connection to symbolism. The play is regarded as the first modern masterpiece in the tragicomedy genre.
What the play explores
The story follows an idealistic son who exposes the duplicity of his corrupt merchant father. His attempt to save the people around him instead destroys the people he hopes to help.
The Ekdal family sits at the center of the drama. Its fragile peace is disrupted by Gregers Werle, an idealist determined to reveal concealed truths. The resulting story explores deception, betrayal and the disillusionment of modern life while also incorporating comedy and satire.
The October Bokprat is free, but prospective attendees must register before joining the Zoom discussion. Vesterheim’s event page is the stated sign-up point for the program.