The Little Eyolf, which Ibsen completed in 1894 – after settling permanently in Kristiania, present-day Oslo – explores the theme of guilt, the anguish experienced by a couple following the unexpected death of their child. With love, passion, and hatred coexisting with guilt, the play unfolds the endless struggle of man with himself and his environment.

The worldwide premiere took place in Berlin in 1895 with the renowned actress Agnes Sorma in the role of Rita. This was followed shortly by performances in many other European cities, including Gothenburg, Milan, and Vienna.

The plot centers on the disintegration of the marriage of the couple Alfred and Rita Almers, who live under the burden of guilt over the drowning of their child, little Eyolf. Among Ibsen's realistic dramas, the exploration of female sexuality makes a strong appearance in The Little Eyolf. Rita, immersed in her romantic desire for her partner, perceives anything that distracts his attention from her as a threat. A victim of her high expectations, she struggles to balance her roles as mother and wife.

A few years earlier, Ibsen clarified in a letter: “My intention is not to analyze various problems. What I want most of all is to portray human beings, feelings, and destinies, within the framework of certain social conditions and principles, in the way our era demands.” The Little Eyolf, written over a hundred and thirty years ago, remains relevant today, stirring stagnant waters and overflowing with painful truths.