Kalevala

Author: Lonto
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-08-01
Features: The national epic Kalevala originates from ancient Finnish folk poetry. However, in ancient folk poetry, the main male characters in Kalevala, such as V?in?m?inen, Ilmatar, and Lemmink?inen, are given entirely different characteristics. Their heroic deeds are often mixed up and confused in the folk songs of Karelia in the eastern part of Finland and those in the western part. V?in?m?inen sometimes appears as the creator of the heavens, while at other times he performs as a sorcerer. He is a hero of outstanding achievements and invincible battles, but he is either unlucky in love, downcast, or aged, becoming the subject of ridicule by a water spirit and a maiden.