# How does Niels Lyhne develop the theme of Individualism vs. Conformity?

> Niels Lyhne by J. P. Jacobsen

## 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

- [iv](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/niels_lyhne_se/chapters/iv.md): Niels chooses to see with his own eyes and form himself by his own will, separating from the beliefs of others.
- [viii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/niels_lyhne_se/chapters/viii.md): Niels rejects the dogmatic systems of his peers, like Frithjof, and asserts his own unique artistic path, leading to isolation.

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