Kertomiskauden

Kertomiskauden is a term used in Finnish literature to describe the period from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, characterized by a focus on folklore, mythology, and national identity. This era saw a resurgence of interest in Finnish folklore and mythology, which had been suppressed during the Swedish rule. Writers during this period drew heavily from Finnish oral traditions, fairy tales, and legends to create works that celebrated Finnish culture and history.

One of the most prominent figures of the kertomiskauden is Elias Lönnrot, who compiled the Kalevala, a collection of Finnish epic poems. The Kalevala became a cornerstone of Finnish national identity and continues to be a significant work in Finnish literature. Other notable authors of this period include Zacharias Topelius, whose works often featured elements of Finnish folklore, and Minna Canth, whose novels explored the lives of Finnish peasants and women.

The kertomiskauden also saw the development of the Finnish language and literature. During this time, Finnish was gaining recognition as a literary language, and writers began to use it more freely in their works. This period laid the foundation for modern Finnish literature and helped to establish Finnish as a distinct cultural identity.

In summary, the kertomiskauden was a crucial period in Finnish literature, marked by a renewed interest in folklore and mythology. It played a significant role in shaping Finnish national identity and contributed to the development of the Finnish language and literature.