Peer Gynt - A Dramatic Poem Illustrated by Arthur Rackham

In this review of Peer Gynt by Henrik Ibsen, illustrated by Arthur Rackham, the bottom line is simple: this edition is for readers who want a classic Norwegian play presented with striking illustration rather than a stripped scholarly text. The review finds the volume most valuable for lovers of theatrical dramas, collectors of illustrated books, and readers curious about Ibsen's ties to Norwegian folk material. The single biggest reason to buy is the pairing of Ibsen's five-act drama with Arthur Rackham's celebrated colour and black-and-white artwork, which transforms familiar scenes into vivid visual moments.

Key Features

• Author and Play: Henrik Ibsen's five-act dramatic poem presents the complete narrative of Peer Gynt drawn from Norwegian folk inspiration, giving readers the full theatrical arc.
• Illustrations by Arthur Rackham: The edition contains a series of dazzling colour and black-and-white illustrations that enrich the text and help visualise Ibsen's characters and settings.
• Cultural Roots: The book highlights Ibsen's use of Per Gynt and Peter Christen Asbjornsen's Norwegian fairy tales, making it useful for readers interested in regional and cultural context.
• Character Connections: Notes about Ibsen modeling characters on his own family add a personal dimension that benefits readers studying authorial influences.
• Durable Presentation: The combination of a well-known play and a renowned Golden Age illustrator makes this edition appealing as a collectible or a gift for literature enthusiasts.

Who It's For

This edition is ideal for readers of literature and fiction who appreciate theatrical works and for collectors of illustrated books who value Arthur Rackham's contribution to the British Golden Age of Illustration. It suits students and general readers who want the play accompanied by strong visual interpretation rather than academic annotation.

Readers seeking an annotated critical edition, a compact study text, or modern adaptations with explanatory scholarly apparatus should look elsewhere, as this presentation emphasizes the text and the artwork rather than extensive critical notes or footnoted scholarship.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The Rackham illustrations provide vivid, memorable visuals that complement Ibsen's dramatic scenes.
• The full five-act structure preserves Ibsen's original dramatic pacing for theatre readers and performers.
• The edition connects the play to Norwegian folk origins and Ibsen's family influences, adding cultural depth.

Cons

• Not a heavily annotated scholarly edition, so it may lack the critical notes some students require.

Specifications

Our Verdict

This illustrated edition of Peer Gynt is recommended for readers who want Ibsen's full five-act play presented with authoritative, evocative artwork by Arthur Rackham. It represents good value as a collectible or a reading copy for those who prioritize visual richness and the play's cultural roots over dense scholarly commentary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this edition include all five acts of Peer Gynt?
Yes. This edition presents the complete five-act dramatic poem by Henrik Ibsen.

Are the illustrations colour or black-and-white?
The book includes a series of both colour and black-and-white illustrations by Arthur Rackham.

Is this a scholarly annotated edition?
No. The volume focuses on Ibsen's text and Rackham's illustrations rather than extensive academic notes.