Henrik Ibsen, considered to be the father of modern drama, was a Norwegian playwright. He is responsible for "realistic drama". During the Victorian era Ibsen's writings were considered scandalous. The Vikings of Helgeland was Ibsen's 7th play written in 1857. the island of Helgeland is in the northern part of Norway. The story takes place in the time of Erik the Blood circa 933 A D. The setting is a rocky coastline with several war ships in the distance. The character of Hjdoris was modeled after Ibsen's fiancé Suzannah. Hjdoris is a larger than life character whose strength comes from honor and love. In the play Hjdoris continues to love one man while marring another.