Petra and Captain Horster have both received public punishments for supporting Dr. Stockmann’s ideas, even though they have done nothing illegal or wrong; this is one way in which tyranny of the majority can actually subvert democratic norms, rather than upholding them. It’s notable Captain Horster continues to be both loyal and apolitical; only by staying away from politics in its current form, the play suggests, can an individual uphold his beliefs and support his friends.