Former clergyman John Rosmer comes from along and distinguished line of ancestors and lives in the family mansion Rosmerholm together with his dead wife's companion Rebecca West. With her support and encouragement he intends to join the progressive radical movement and begin his life's work 'ennobling souls', but his brother-in-law, Kroll, tries unsuccessfully at first to enlist him for the establishment cause. When imputations suggest Rosmer's barren wife Beata was not so much insane as driven to suicide by John and Rebecca, his guilt stultifies further radical activity. Rebecca, to free him, confesses her stratagems; not only has she pushed John into the radical posture, but she also, albeit subconsciously, encouraged Beata's suicide. Her goals have been fulfilled, but she cannot enjoy them. Rosmer has at least ennobled 'her' soul, but her happiness is destroyed. Furthermore, Kroll has revealed to her intimations of her illegitimacy. When she asks the disillusioned Rosmer what she must do for him to believe in her again, he says follow his wife. They declare their mutual love and go to the bridge over the mill-race and drown together.
