Henrik Ibsen was a Norwegian playwright and poet, often referred to as the "father of modern drama." Born in 1828, he is best known for his plays "A Doll's House," "Hedda Gabler," and "Peer Gynt," which challenged societal norms and explored themes of individualism and personal freedom. Ibsen's work laid the groundwork for modernist and realist movements in theater, focusing on the psychological conflicts within everyday life.