The Kalevala

Main Ideas

• The national epic of the Finnish people, compiled and reworked by Elias Lönnrot, tells of the creation of the world, the journeys and adventures of heroes, and the struggle between good and evil.
• Promotes the idea of Finnish national revival, preserving cultural heritage through tales, songs, and poetry.
• A strong connection between humans and nature, with its mystical and sacred dimensions, expressed through the heroes' perception of the world.
• The idea of The Kalevala world as an alternative to Christian culture, narrating ancient pagan gods, spirits, and traditions.
• The struggle for existence and the wisdom of its heroes, who overcome difficulties through knowledge, strength of spirit, and the help of higher powers.
• The importance of kinship, family, and community, emphasized through the relationships of the main characters.
• The collection of ethnographic material as a way to recreate the true image of the people's past, their traditions, beliefs, and way of life.