Pan

Historical Context and Significance

Published in 1894, Knut Hamsun's novel «Pan» is one of the key works of Norwegian literature at the end of the 19th century. The book explores themes of nature, solitude, and human psychology, which were innovative for its time. Hamsun uses symbolism and lyrical prose to convey the inner experiences of the main character, Lieutenant Thomas Glahn, and his complex relationships with the world around him. «Pan» had a significant impact on the development of modernism in literature, inspiring many 20th-century writers, including Hermann Hesse and Franz Kafka. The work also played an important role in shaping Norwegian national identity, reflecting a deep connection between humans and nature and their internal conflicts. The book remains relevant and is studied as an important example of psychological realism and symbolism in world literature.