Elias Lönnrot Biografiskt utkast   By: August Ahlqvist (1826-1889)

Elias Lönnrot Biografiskt utkast by August Ahlqvist is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the life and work of Elias Lönnrot, the Finnish philologist and folklorist best known for compiling the Kalevala, the national epic of Finland. Ahlqvist delves into Lönnrot's early life, education, and career, shedding light on the influences and experiences that shaped his groundbreaking work.

The book provides a detailed account of Lönnrot's travels across Finland and Karelia, where he collected and compiled the ancient oral poetry that would form the basis of the Kalevala. Ahlqvist skillfully navigates the complexities of Lönnrot's methodology and the challenges he faced in piecing together the various fragments of folklore into a cohesive narrative.

One of the strengths of Ahlqvist's biography is his deep understanding of the cultural and historical context in which Lönnrot lived and worked. He paints a vivid picture of 19th-century Finland, a society in transition grappling with questions of identity and nationhood. Through his meticulous research and engaging prose, Ahlqvist brings Lönnrot's world to life, offering readers a rich and nuanced portrait of this pioneering scholar.

Overall, Elias Lönnrot Biografiskt utkast is a must-read for anyone interested in Finnish literature, folklore, or the history of scholarship. Ahlqvist's passion for his subject shines through on every page, making this biography a compelling and illuminating exploration of a true literary giant.

First Page:

Elias Lönnrots lefnadsdag är afslutad. Den var lång, men hade den varit än aldrig så lång, skulle vi likväl önskat, att den räckt ännu längre: så kär var han oss, så svårt hade vi att tänka oss skilsmessan från honom... Continue reading book >>