* Social Critique: "Ghosts" challenged the moral hypocrisy and societal pressures of Victorian society. Ibsen exposes the damaging consequences of suppressing emotions and living a lie, particularly within family structures. He questions the sanctity of marriage and the traditional roles of men and women, revealing the hidden darkness beneath seemingly respectable facades.
* Individualism and Morality: The play delves into the individual's struggle for self-discovery and the right to choose their own path, even if it goes against societal norms. Oswald's struggle with his syphilis and his desire for self-fulfillment, despite its tragic outcome, exemplifies this theme.
* Consequences of Repression: "Ghosts" explores the damaging effects of suppressing emotions and secrets, particularly in family dynamics. The play argues that by hiding the truth and pretending everything is fine, families create a toxic environment that leads to suffering and ultimately destruction. This can be seen in Mrs. Alving's attempts to maintain a perfect image while hiding the truth about her husband's past.
* Impact of the Past: "Ghosts" examines how the past can haunt the present. The play reveals how secrets and actions from previous generations can have lasting repercussions on future generations, shaping their lives and choices. This can be observed in Oswald's inheritance of his father's disease and the legacy of the family's lies and deceit.
* The Nature of Truth: Ibsen explores the difficulty of confronting and accepting the truth, even when it's painful. The characters struggle with the truth about their lives and the choices they've made, often choosing to ignore it or rationalize it. This highlights the inherent difficulty of living an authentic life and facing the consequences of our actions.
It's important to note that Ibsen himself never fully explained his intentions with "Ghosts," adding to its mystique and open to various interpretations. However, it's clear that he aimed to provoke thought and debate about the complexities of human relationships, morality, and the consequences of social conformity.