Elias Lönnrot

Memoria y concepción filosófica del universo de todo un pueblo, el finlandés, elKalevala es a la vez una de las más grandes epopeyas de Europa. Suma del folclore de Finlandia y de su pasado mítico, en ella la leyenda, la fabula y la balada aparecen perfectamente entrelazadas, creando un mundo a caballo entre la realidad y la magia.Memoria y concepcion filosofica del universo de todo un pueblo, el finlandes, elKalevalaes a la vez una de las mas grandes epopeyas de Europa. Compuesta por Elias Lonnrot a partir del disperso repertorio de cantos populares, transmitidos de generacion en generacion por bardos carelianos, su minucioso trabajo de recuperacion y reelaboracion de los cantos alumbro por fin una obra unica y coherente, suma del folclore de Finlandia y de su pasado mitico. La leyenda, la fabula y la balada aparecen en ella perfectamente entrelazadas, creando un mundo a caballo entre la realidad y la magia, poblado no por heroes en sentido estricto, sino por hombres que, si bien destacan por sus atributos casi divinos, actuan movidos por pasiones humanas. La presente edicion responde a la definitiva de la obra, publicada en 1849.Prologo de Agustin Garcia CalvoMemoria y concepcion filosofica del universo de todo un pueblo, el finlandes, elKalevalaes a la vez una de las mas grandes epopeyas de Europa. Compuesta por Elias Lonnrot a partir del disperso repertorio de cantos populares, transmitidos de generacion en generacion por bardos carelianos, su minucioso trabajo de recuperacion y reelaboracion de los cantos alumbro por fin una obra unica y coherente, suma del folclore de Finlandia y de su pasado mitico. La leyenda, la fabula y la balada aparecen en ella perfectamente entrelazadas, creando un mundo a caballo entre la realidad y la magia, poblado no por heroes en sentido estricto, sino por hombres que, si bien destacan por sus atributos casi divinos, actuan movidos por pasiones humanas. La presente edicion responde a la definitiva de la obra, publicada en 1849.Prologo de Agustin Garcia Calvo

(Also see eBooks 5184-5186)

Translator: John Martin Crawford

The "Kalevala: The Epic Poem of Finland" is a monumental compilation of Finnish folklore, meticulously assembled by Elias Lonnrot in the 19th century. This epic poem, structured into 50 cantos, intricately weaves together a tapestry of myth, heroism, and the human experience, rich with lyricism and rhythmic cadences typical of oral traditions. Lonnrots innovative adaptation of various fragmented oral stories presents a deeper cultural identity, reflecting the struggle between nature and mankind, the quest for knowledge, and the intertwining fates of its vibrant characters from the Finnish epic tradition. Elias Lonnrot, a physician and philologist, embarked on extensive travels throughout Finland to collect these oral epic songs, motivated by a desire to preserve the Finnish language and culture during a time of increasing nationalism. His scholarly pursuits were fortified by the Romantic ideals of his era, which championed the importance of folklore and regional identity. Lonnrots personal passion for the Finnish landscape and mythology undoubtedly fueled his commitment to craft the Kalevala, imbuing it with a sense of authenticity that continues to resonate. This enduring work is highly recommended for readers seeking to understand not only Finlands literary heritage but also the universal themes encapsulated within its verses. The "Kalevala" serves as a powerful tribute to the resilience of folk narratives and remains a vital cultural touchstone, making it essential reading for enthusiasts of mythology, epic poetry, and Finnish history.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Translator: John Martin Crawford

"The Kalevala" is a Finnish epic poem that tells the story of the creation of the universe, the heroes who inhabit it, and the tales of their struggles and adventures. We learn how existence was created from a duck egg, how forests were created from the chips of a world-tree felled by an ancient wizard, how the mighty Sampoa multicolored mill of plentywas created and later stolen, and how the nine dread diseases were created, and many other tales.

El Kalevala es una epopeya finlandesa compuesta por Elias Lönnrot a partir del disperso repertorio de cantos populares, transmitidos de generación en generaciónpor bardos carelianos como Arhippa Pert

Translator: John Martin Crawford

In primeval times, a maiden, Beauteous Daughter of the Ether, Passed for ages her existence In the great expanse of heaven, Oer the prairies yet enfolded. Wearisome the maiden growing, Her existence sad and hopeless, Thus alone to live for ages In the infinite expanses Of the air above the sea-foam, In the far outstretching spaces, In a solitude of ether, She descended to the ocean, Waves her coach, and waves her pillow. Thereupon the rising storm-wind Flying from the East in fierceness, Whips the ocean into surges, Strikes the stars with sprays of ocean Till the waves are white with fervor.

In the depths of ancient Finland, where the wind whispers tales of yore, lies The Kalevala, an epic tapestry woven from the threads of myth and legend. Elias Lonnrot, a master storyteller, has meticulously gathered and preserved these fragments of a forgotten past, creating a timeless masterpiece that echoes with the voices of heroes, sorcerers, and gods.Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey through the primeval forests, across treacherous seas, and into the celestial realms. The Kalevala is a symphony of adventure, love, loss, and the indomitable spirit of a people. Its verses, rich with symbolism and wisdom, will captivate your imagination and transport you to a world where the boundaries between reality and myth blur.

In primeval times, a maiden,Beauteous Daughter of the Ether,Passed for ages her existenceIn the great expanse of heaven,Oer the prairies yet enfolded.Wearisome the maiden growing,Her existence sad and hopeless,Thus alone to live for agesIn the infinite expansesOf the air above the sea-foam,In the far outstretching spaces,In a solitude of ether,She descended to the ocean,Waves her coach, and waves her pillow.Thereupon the rising storm-windFlying from the East in fierceness,Whips the ocean into surges,Strikes the stars with sprays of oceanTill the waves are white with fervor.