Chapter 2
In the same parlor, Mrs. Alving and Pastor Manders discuss the scandal involving the late Chamberlain Alving, Johanna, and Jacob Engstrand. Mrs. Alving admits that Johanna paid three hundred dollars to keep silent, that Engstrand was paid to marry the fallen woman, and that she herself married Engstrand to silence the affair. Their dialogue spirals into arguments about cowardice, ideals, and the “ghosts” of past sins that haunt them both. Engstrand arrives unexpectedly, seeking Pastor Manders' permission to hold a prayer meeting. He reveals he has been paid off, that he and Johanna used the money for a child’s education, and proposes to open a Sailors’ Home that could also serve as an orphanage. Pastor Manders, after a tense exchange, agrees to help him.
Later, Oswald returns home, visibly ill and emotionally exhausted. He tells Mrs. Alving that a Parisian doctor diagnosed him with a hereditary “worm‑eaten” condition, declaring that “the sins of the fathers visit the children.” He describes his symptoms—severe head pain, loss of artistic ability, and a sense of total ruin. He blames himself for an inherited curse and expresses despair, repeatedly insisting he can no longer work or live as he once did. He also confesses a deep, irrational love for Regina, regarding her as his salvation, and reveals that he feels compelled to leave the household to protect her and herself.
Mrs. Alving and Regina attempt to comfort Oswald, sharing champagne, discussing Regina’s future, and Oswald’s desire to marry her or arrange something for her. Pastor Manders re‑enters, announcing his recent work at the orphanage. Suddenly Regina shouts that the orphanage is on fire. Mrs. Alving, Manders, and Regina rush to the window and see flames engulfing the building. Manders reacts as if the disaster is divine judgment, while Mrs. Alving hurriedly gathers her shawl and urges Regina to leave. The chapter ends with the three characters fleeing the burning orphanage, leaving its fate unresolved.