Henrik Ibsen's Ghosts characters

Also known as Mrs Alving

Appears from the start

A wealthy widow preparing to dedicate an orphanage in memory of her late husband, Captain Alving. She has spent years preserving his respectable public image and shielding their son from the truth about their marriage. Independent-minded in private, she nevertheless fears the social judgement represented by Pastor Manders.

Appears from the start

Mrs Alving's adult son, an artist who has lived abroad for much of his life. He has returned for the orphanage dedication and enjoys an easy familiarity with Regina. His mother sent him away when he was young, so his understanding of his father comes largely from the honorable image she constructed.

Appears from the start

A clergyman advising Mrs Alving on the orphanage and managing its finances. He is deeply concerned with public opinion, conventional duty, and the appearance of moral order. Years earlier he persuaded Mrs Alving to return to her husband after she fled the marriage.

Appears from the start

The Alving household's young maid, raised as Jacob Engstrand's daughter. Ambitious and impatient with her limited prospects, she hopes education and contact with Oswald will lead to a more refined life than the one Engstrand offers her.

Appears from the start

A carpenter employed on the orphanage, publicly known as Regina's father. He presents himself to Pastor Manders as a reformed sinner planning a charitable home for sailors, but his explanations are calculating and he wants Regina to help run the establishment.