Ekdal is a fictional character from the play "The Wild Duck" by Henrik Ibsen. He is portrayed as a struggling man who has lost his fortune and is now living in a modest home with his family. Ekdal's life is marked by his attempts to maintain dignity despite his circumstances, and he often retreats into a world of fantasy to escape his harsh reality. In the play, Ekdal's relationship with his daughter, Gina Ekdal, and his son, Hjalmar Ekdal, highlights themes of family dynamics and the impact of societal expectations. His character serves as a representation of the struggles faced by individuals in a changing society, making him a poignant figure in Ibsen's exploration of human nature.