Niels Lyhne · Question
How does Niels Lyhne develop the theme of Individualism vs. Conformity?
Answer
Niels Lyhne by J. P. Jacobsen develops Individualism vs. Conformity across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Niels Lyhne's desire to be an exceptional, heroic individual clashes with the mundane expectations of society, family, and conventional life, leading to a sense of alienation and a recurring temptation to sink into the 'common herd.'
Niels chooses to see with his own eyes and form himself by his own will, separating from the beliefs of others.
Niels rejects the dogmatic systems of his peers, like Frithjof, and asserts his own unique artistic path, leading to isolation.
Evidence in the book
- Chapter IV
Niels chooses to see with his own eyes and form himself by his own will, separating from the beliefs of others.
- VIII
Niels rejects the dogmatic systems of his peers, like Frithjof, and asserts his own unique artistic path, leading to isolation.