Hedda Gabler

What is Power? According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary power is defined as ability to act or produce an effect; ability to get extra-base hits; capacity for being acted upon or undergoing an effect; possession of control, authority, or influence over others.

This definition fits Hedda Gabler perfectly. Although beautiful, Hedda was a women who loved to be in control, and have power over others. The entire novel basis itself as Hedda as the main character who dominate everyone, and very selfish. “ Brack: And you didn’t really care in the least about the house? Hedda; God knows I didn’t.” ( Isben, 1486.) Instead of Hedda being happy for her and her husband’s home, the concern is always with herself.

Hedda was aware of the relationship Mrs. Elvsted had with Loveborg, and wanted to use that as power over the two. Loveborg was in love with Hedda, and even though she didn’t feel the same, she used that as leverage as well.

One can only wonder someone lived for control. Maybe because she was a general’s daughter she felt that was something that she deserved.

When Brack knew that she gave the gun to Loveborg for him to kill himself the power was out of her hands. What does she do? She doesn’t want to allow the Judge to have control over her. “ From now on I’ll be quiet.” ( Ibsen, 1518.) Since the power was out of Hedda’s hands she decided to gain back the control and end her life.