The Wild Duck Lesson Plan

How has Hjalmar been affected by his father’s disgrace? What does this reveal about his character?

In his conversation with Gregers, Hjalmar shows himself to be a sensitive and well-meaning person, if a little bit prone to self-mythologizing. Effectively, he assumes his father’s disgrace as he own, and although he suffers greatly for this, he also derives motivation and meaning from it. Looking back at The Wild Duck today, it is hard not to perceive existentialist overtones in Hjalmar’s attempt to resurrect his family fortunes: he shows a substantial capacity for authenticity which his friend Gregers, who has also strayed from the well-worn path, can very well appreciate....