The Epic Poem of Finland: Unveiling the Untold Legends of a Proud Nation

From the enchanting lands of Finland emerges an epic tale so grand, so vibrant, and so extraordinary that it captivates the hearts of both young and old. The Kalevala, the national epic of Finland, weaves together a tapestry of myth, magic, and heroism that brings to life the rich cultural heritage of this magnificent country.

The Kalevala is an invaluable treasure trove that unlocks the history, mythology, and folk wisdom of Finland. Composed by the prolific Finnish poet Elias Lönnrot in the 19th century, this epic masterpiece represents the collective voice of the Finnish people, celebrating their language, identity, and spirit.

A Glimpse into the Kalevala: The Origin Story

Tracing its origins to the oral traditions of ancient Finnish tribes, the Kalevala is a compilation of epic poems that Lönnrot painstakingly collected from various parts of Finland. Inspired by ancient poetry recited by village bards, Lönnrot embarked on a mission to preserve and immortalize the fading stories of Finnish mythology and legends.

The Epic Poem of Finland

by Hamid Majid Abbasi(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1363 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	675 pages
Paperback	:	200 pages
Item Weight	:	12.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.5 x 9 inches

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By traveling across the Finnish landscape, recording the poems and verses he encountered along the way, Lönnrot crafted a cohesive narrative that later solidified into the Kalevala. Divided into fifty chapters or runes, this epic work unites mythical heroes, mystical creatures, and cosmic phenomena into an awe-inspiring saga.

Heroes, Gods, and Battles that Defined a Nation

Within the pages of the Kalevala, readers are introduced to an array of vivid characters that have become synonymous with Finnish culture. Among them, Väinämöinen, the wise old sage and music master whose melodies have the power to calm storms and heal sorrows; Lemminkäinen, the valiant and reckless adventurer who embarks on dangerous quests; and the ever-fierce warrior maiden, Ilmarinen's sister, who fights alongside the men with unmatched valor.

One of the most climactic moments in the Kalevala revolves around the creation of the Sampo, a mystical device that brings prosperity and abundance to its possessor. The forging of the Sampo precipitates a series of events, including fierce battles among the heroes themselves and the eventual strengthening of the Finnish nation.

Additionally, the Kalevala reflects the Finnish people's deep connection to nature, with many of its stories revolving around the landscapes, lakes, and forests that define Finland's geographical identity. These tales not only entertain but also provide valuable insights into the harmony that exists between humans and nature.

Legacy, Influence, and Recognition

Since its publication in 1835, the Kalevala has become more than just an epic poem—it symbolizes the spirit of the Finnish people, their resilience, and their deep connection to their ancestral roots. This significant literary work has inspired countless Finnish artists, musicians, and writers, who have drawn inspiration from its beautiful verses and intricate stories.

The influence of the Kalevala is not limited to Finland alone, as it also inspired some of the greatest creative minds of the 19th and 20th centuries. Prominent figures such as J.R.R. Tolkien, composer Jean Sibelius, and architect Eliel Saarinen found inspiration in this epic poem, with traces of its influence evident in their respective works.

In 1985, UNESCO recognized the magnitude of the Kalevala as an integral part of world culture and added it to the Memory of the World Register—an esteemed list that highlights significant documentary heritage.

Promoting National Identity and Cultural Pride

The Kalevala serves as a powerful vehicle for promoting national identity and cultural pride in Finland. The epic poem is taught in schools and universities, ensuring that each generation is familiar with the rich traditions and mythical stories that underpin Finnish heritage.

Furthermore, various adaptations of the Kalevala have been brought to life on stage and screen. From operas and plays to movies and ballets, these adaptations breathe new life into the mythical heroes and enchanting landscapes described within the poem.

A Timeless Masterpiece that Continues to Captivate

The Kalevala has stood the test of time, continuing to resonate with readers worldwide. Its deep-rooted connection to nature, its timeless themes of bravery, magic, and love, and its celebration of Finnish identity make it a universally appealing piece of literature.

As we delve into the enchanting world of the Kalevala, we are transported to a realm where gods, heroes, and mythical creatures intertwine, igniting our imagination and reminding us of the power of storytelling. So join us on this magical journey through the pages of the Kalevala and uncover the hidden gems of Finland's epic poem.

The Epic Poem of Finland

by Hamid Majid Abbasi(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1363 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	675 pages
Paperback	:	200 pages
Item Weight	:	12.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.5 x 9 inches

FREE

Kalevala or Kalewala can be interpreted as the land of Kaleva or Kalevia. Currently this vast region is divided between the Russian Republic of Karelia, the Russian Leningrad Oblast and Finland - specifically the regions of north and south Karelia. Much of Finnish poetry was of the oral tradition. But Kalevala is a national and unifying poem. The authors of the work are numerous and stretch back almost countless centuries but, important additions and structuring are most notably from the eighteenth and nineteenth century, and include Arhippa Perttunen Juhana Kainulainen, Matiska and Ontrei Malinen. From this myriad of sources the work is now more often attributed to its compiler Elias Lonnrot, who, in the mid 19th century, made many field trips around the region to piece together this remarkable epic poem of Finnish folklore, history, mythology and wisdom which had previously been told by storytellers often as a duo alternating verses between themselves and sometimes accompanied by a kantele player - a stringed instrument similar to a dulcimer or zither. Despite the wide and diverse area of origin, the recital was always built on a pentachord and sung in the same metre although the rhythm might vary. It is said to have been the inspiration for Longfellow's Hiawatha which also uses the same metre. Lonnrot was a doctor, linguist and botanist who worked for the district health office in the eastern part of Finland and had a deep interest in these folkloric tales. He had previously published other works but none of the size or significance of these 22,795 verses which are divided into fifty songs or Runes (Finnish runot). This work is still regarded as the most important in Finnish literature and contributed to the development of the Finnish national identity from it's initial publishing in 1835 (called The old Kalevala) to the more wide-spread and popular 1849 version. It is said with its promotion of Finnish pride, language and identity to have led to Finnish independence from Russia in 1917 but can still be enjoyed today for the fascinating sagas and its profound beauty.