Language/Finnish/Culture/Finnish-Classic-Literature

Finnish → Culture → Finnish Classic Literature

As a Finnish language teacher, I often get questions from students about Finnish literature. Finnish literature is an important part of our culture and history, and it's essential to know about it when learning the language. In this lesson, we will explore Finnish classic literature, including the famous epic poem, Kalevala.

Don't miss the chance to check out these pages as you wrap up this lesson: Finnish Holidays and Festivals & Finnish Cuisine.

What is Finnish Classic Literature?

Finnish classic literature refers to literature written in the Finnish language before the 20th century. It includes works from different genres, such as poetry, plays, and novels. Finnish classic literature is an essential part of our national identity, and it has played a crucial role in shaping our culture and history.

Kalevala: The Epic Poem

Kalevala is the most famous epic poem in Finnish literature. It was compiled and edited by Elias Lönnrot in the 19th century and is considered one of the most significant works of Finnish literature. Kalevala consists of 22,795 verses divided into 50 songs. The poem tells the story of the creation of the world, the adventures of heroes, and the struggle between good and evil. Kalevala showcases the Finnish language's richness and complexity, making it an essential tool for learning the language.

Other Works of Finnish Classic Literature

In addition to Kalevala, many other works of Finnish classic literature are considered important. These include:

• Seven Brothers by Aleksis Kivi: Considered the first novel written in Finnish, Seven Brothers tells the story of seven brothers and their struggles to find a place in society.

• The Unknown Soldier by Väinö Linna: A novel about the Continuation War, which was fought between Finland and the Soviet Union during World War II.

• The Maid Silja by Frans Eemil Sillanpää: Set in the 19th century, The Maid Silja tells the story of a young woman's life in rural Finland.

Learning Finnish Through Classic Literature

Reading classic Finnish literature is an excellent way to improve your language skills. Not only does it give you a better understanding of the language's grammar and vocabulary, but it also exposes you to the culture and history of Finland. By reading works like Kalevala, you can better appreciate the significance of the Finnish language and its role in creating a national identity.

Conclusion

Finnish classic literature is an essential part of our culture and history. By learning about it, you can deepen your understanding of the Finnish language and the country's identity. Kalevala is the most famous work of Finnish classic literature and showcases the richness and complexity of the Finnish language. Other works like Seven Brothers, The Unknown Soldier, and The Maid Silja are also considered important.

Sources:

• Kalevala
• Seven Brothers

Finished this lesson? Check out these related lessons: Finnish Literature & Finnish Traditional Crafts.

Sources

• Literature from the Land of a Thousand Lakes: 10 Finnish Classics
• Top 10: Your favourite Finnish books - thisisFINLAND
• Finnish literature - Wikipedia
• Best Finnish Novels - Edunation

Other Lessons

• Finnish Society and Values
• Finnish Holidays and Festivals
• Finnish Cuisine
• Finnish Music and Arts
• Finland Timeline
• Finnish Mythology and Legends
• Finnish Contemporary Literature
• Finnish Film Industry
• Finnish Folk Music and Dance