Kalevala

Definition

The Kalevala is a 19th-century epic poem compiled by Elias Lönnrot, based on Finnish oral folklore and mythology. It consists of 50 songs that tell the stories of mythical heroes, gods, and the creation of the world, reflecting the cultural identity of Finland and its rich oral tradition. The work has had a profound impact on Finnish literature and has inspired various artistic movements across Europe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Kalevala was first published in 1835 and expanded in 1849, making it a foundational text in Finnish literature.
2. The epic is divided into sections called 'runes,' which are based on traditional songs and narratives passed down through generations.
3. Characters such as Väinämöinen, Ilmarinen, and Lemminkäinen play significant roles in the tales, embodying traits admired in Finnish culture.
4. The Kalevala's themes often include creation myths, heroism, and the struggle against evil forces, reflecting both personal and collective struggles.
5. The influence of the Kalevala extends beyond literature; it has inspired composers, artists, and nationalists in shaping Finland's cultural identity.

Review Questions

• How did Elias Lönnrot's role as a compiler shape the content and structure of the Kalevala?
  • Elias Lönnrot played a crucial role in shaping the Kalevala by collecting oral poetry from various regions in Finland. His efforts resulted in an epic that not only preserved traditional songs but also created a coherent narrative structure. By organizing these diverse tales into a unified work, Lönnrot highlighted key themes and characters that reflect Finnish culture and mythology.
• Discuss how the themes found in the Kalevala reflect the ideals of National Romanticism during the 19th century.
  • The themes in the Kalevala strongly align with the ideals of National Romanticism by emphasizing national identity, folklore, and cultural heritage. The epic's focus on Finnish mythology and heroic figures serves to foster a sense of pride among Finns during a time when national identity was being forged. This connection between literature and national consciousness was pivotal for movements advocating for independence and cultural revival across Europe.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the Kalevala on Finnish culture and its influence on European artistic movements.
  • The Kalevala has left a lasting impact on Finnish culture by serving as a cornerstone of national literature and identity. Its rich narratives have inspired composers like Jean Sibelius and artists throughout Europe to draw upon its themes and characters. As a symbol of cultural pride, the Kalevala has also influenced various artistic movements that celebrate folklore and mythology, making it a vital part of both Finnish heritage and broader European cultural dialogues.

Related terms

Elias Lönnrot: A Finnish physician and philologist who collected and compiled the oral poetry that formed the basis of the Kalevala.

Finnish Mythology: The body of myths of the Finnish people, which includes tales of gods, spirits, and mythical creatures that shaped the world and human existence.

National Romanticism: An artistic and literary movement in the 19th century that emphasized national identity and folklore, prominently influencing works like the Kalevala.