Author
Selma Lagerlöf
1858-1940
Selma Lagerlöf (1858-1940) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Selma Lagerlöf
Wunderbare Reise des kleinen Nils Holgersson mit den Wildgänsen: Ein Kinderbuch
"Wunderbare Reise des kleinen Nils Holgersson mit den Wildgänsen: Ein Kinderbuch" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel first published in 1906/1907. Fourteen-year-old Nils Holgersson, a cruel and lazy farm boy, is transformed into a tiny elf as punishment. He flies across Sweden on the back of a domestic goose traveling with wild geese, experiencing adventures while learning about his country's geography, history, and culture. Through his journey, Nils must prove himself morally and earn his way back to humanity.
The Wonderful Adventures of Nils
"The Wonderful Adventures of Nils" by Selma Lagerlöf is a work of fiction published in 1906 and 1907. Originally commissioned as a geography reader for Swedish schools, the story follows Nils Holgersson, a mischievous boy who delights in tormenting animals. When he captures a tomte and refuses its bargain, he's transformed to miniature size. Clinging to his family's goose, Nils embarks on an extraordinary flight across Sweden's provinces, learning lessons that might earn him back his normal form.
The Story of Gösta Berling
"The Story of Gösta Berling" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel published in 1891. Set in 1820s Sweden along the shores of Lake Fryken, this debut work follows a defrocked Lutheran priest rescued from freezing by a mysterious mistress. He becomes part of a band of eccentric pensioners living at Ekeby manor, where wild adventures unfold as they take control of the estate. Blending folk tales, supernatural elements, and magic realism, this story explores redemption through the charismatic poet-priest who leads his companions through chaos toward salvation.
Christ Legends
"Christ Legends" by Selma Lagerlöf is a collection of stories written in the early 20th century. The book presents a series of poignant and imaginative narratives centered around the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, capturing the essence of his impact on humanity through the lens of folklore and legend. Through these stories, Lagerlöf evokes deep emotional and spiritual themes, blending the miraculous elements of Christ's narrative with the simplicity of everyday life. The opening of the text introduces us to a reflective child who fondly remembers his grandmother, who told him tales about Jesus. Through her stories, she instills in him a sense of wonder about the divine, particularly the narrative of Jesus' birth. One of her stories unfolds a magical tale about a man seeking fire to warm his wife and newborn, detailing extraordinary acts of compassion and the mysterious presence of angels on a holy night. This vibrant recollection lays the groundwork for the themes of kindness and divine intervention that are further explored in the other legends, creating a rich tapestry of emotional depth and spiritual insight.
Le Merveilleux voyage de Nils Holgersson à travers la Suède
"Le Merveilleux voyage de Nils Holgersson à travers la Suède" by Selma Lagerlöf is a work of fiction originally published in 1906 and 1907. A mischievous boy who delights in tormenting animals captures a tomte and faces magical consequences—he's shrunk to tiny size. Clinging to the neck of his family's goose, Nils embarks on an extraordinary journey across Sweden's provinces with a flock of wild geese, encountering adventures that challenge him to prove his worth and transform his character.
From a Swedish homestead
"From a Swedish Homestead" by Selma Lagerlöf is a collection of stories written in the early 20th century. The narrative begins in the late 1830s, focusing on Gunnar Hede, a student grappling with the financial troubles of his family estate, Munkhyttan, which is on the brink of collapse. The book explores themes of duty, love, and self-discovery as Hede is pushed to re-evaluate his life choices, including his whimsical passion for music, through conversations with his peers and other characters. The opening portion provides a glimpse into Hede’s life at university and the significant pressures he faces regarding his family's legacy. As he engages in a heartfelt dialogue with a friend, Gustaf Alin, the implications of Munkhyttan’s potential sale weigh heavily on him. The narrative transitions between introspection and social interaction, revealing Hede's internal conflict and emotional turmoil. Furthermore, a subplot involving Ingrid, a young girl adopted by the pastor's family, hints at deeper existential inquiries about love and belonging, emphasizing the connections between characters and their pasts.
Mårbacka
"Mårbacka" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in Sweden, the story revolves around the lives of children at Mårbacka, emphasizing their experiences with their stern nursemaid Back-Kaisa, and the various dynamics of family life during their formative years. The narrative likely explores themes of childhood innocence, relationships, and the contrast between tenderness and strictness as represented by the adults around them. At the start of "Mårbacka," we are introduced to the children living in the manor, specifically through the perspective of the youngest child, Selma. The opening chapter establishes a contrast between the children and their nursemaid, Back-Kaisa, who, despite her strength and dutiful nature, lacks warmth and playfulness. The children feel intimidated by her, especially at night when they are alone in their nursery, where strange sounds heighten their fears. The narrative hints at the children’s longing for connection and joy, shaped significantly by their grandmother’s stories and their father's playful interactions, setting the stage for the evolving dynamics as the plot progresses.
The Miracles of Antichrist: A Novel
"The Miracles of Antichrist: A Novel" by Selma Lagerlöf is a fictional work written in the late 19th century. The story navigates themes of faith, the duality of Christ and Antichrist, and the nature of miracles, centered around the struggle of characters in Rome and Sicily against the backdrop of a rich, historical narrative. Notable figures include Emperor Augustus, who encounters a prophetic sibyl, and the impoverished boy Gaetano Alagona, whose journey illuminates the broader implications of worship and societal struggles. The opening of the novel introduces an ominous, dark night during Augustus’s reign, setting the stage for significant celestial events and prophecies about the birth of a new god that intertwine with the fate of Rome. As Augustus seeks divine approval for his new temple, the prophetic Old Sibyl reveals a vision of Christ, declaring that the real god will be worshipped on the Capitol. This marks a profound moment of conflict between divine prophecy and human ambition. Meanwhile, the narrative also hints at the path of Gaetano Alagona, who is introduced as a boy torn between his aspirations to serve God and his roots, suggesting deeper explorations of faith and social justice as the story unfolds.
The Girl from the Marsh Croft
"The Girl from the Marsh Croft" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work marks a shift from Lagerlöf's earlier romantic style to a more realistic and naturalistic approach. The story centers around Helga, a young girl who faces the stigma of having fallen from grace, and her journey toward redemption and self-acceptance, intertwined with complex relationships and moral dilemmas. The opening of the novel introduces us to a tense courtroom scene where Helga is brought to trial for seeking support from a married man, whom she claims is the father of her child. As she struggles with her shame and fears, she defies the man’s attempt to take a perjured oath to deny his responsibility, ultimately revealing her deep sense of integrity and love. Following this pivotal moment, we see Gudmund, a local young man, who becomes intrigued by Helga's strength and vulnerability. Their lives begin to intertwine more deeply against the backdrop of societal judgment, personal sacrifice, and the quest for redemption. The beginning sets the tone for themes of love, societal constraints, and moral courage that will unfold throughout the story.
Christuslegenden
"Christuslegenden" by Selma Lagerlöf is a collection of legends and stories inspired by the life of Christ, written in the early 20th century. The work intricately weaves biblical narratives with folklore and personal reflections, presenting a spiritual journey through various pivotal moments in Christianity. At the start of the narrative, Lagerlöf introduces an elder character recalling the profound loss of their grandmother, who used to tell enchanting tales. This sense of nostalgia serves as a prologue to a tale reminiscent of the Nativity, where the grandmother recounts a story about a man seeking fire on a dark Christmas night—a man whose journey leads him to encounter the warmth of human kindness against the backdrop of a glorious divine event. The atmosphere combines elements of fairy tale and warmth, suggesting a deeper exploration of faith intertwined with the tenderness of familial love and memory.
The Treasure
"The Treasure" by Selma Lagerlöf is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Torarin, a poor fish hawker in Bohuslän, who embarks on a journey to seek livelihood and encounters themes of love, mourning, and revenge, particularly concerning the tragic fate of a local parsonage and its residents. At the start of the novel, Torarin, who is physically infirm, sets out on his usual route to sell fish when he hears of the sea being frozen, allowing for easier travel. As he makes his way to Solberga Parsonage, he chats with his loyal dog, Grim, reflecting on local news and the warmth of home. Upon arrival, he witnesses a gathering of the parson's household, where an air of tension prevails. The old mistress expresses foreboding about strange occurrences, and soon, Torarin learns of a recent tragedy that has befallen the parsonage—Herr Arne and his family have been brutally murdered, which sets in motion a series of events involving revenge and the search for solace. The beginning establishes a rich atmosphere filled with superstition, foreshadowing, and the ramifications of a violent past that will echo throughout the tale.
Unsichtbare Bande: Erzählungen
"Unsichtbare Bande: Erzählungen" by Selma Lagerlöf is a collection of stories written during the late 19th century. The narratives draw from various aspects of life and human emotions, including themes of love, betrayal, and the struggle for identity, intertwined with the lives of small-town characters, such as the protagonist, Peter Nord, and his experiences as a young boy in a close-knit community. The opening of the collection introduces the town where Peter Nord lives, depicting its charm and the intimate connections among its inhabitants. We learn about Peter, a bright and cheerful boy working in a general store, whose playful and imaginative character endears him to the townsfolk. However, his life takes a turn when he discovers a fifty-crown banknote and contemplates revenge against his employer for a past grievance involving a dead mouse. This inner conflict sets the tone for Peter's character development and introduces the themes of innocence, guilt, and the pursuit of happiness that are likely to unfold throughout the stories.
The Emperor of Portugallia
"The Emperor of Portugallia" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel published in 1914. Set in rural Värmland, it tells the story of Jan, a tenant farmer whose love for his daughter Glory Goldie transforms into obsession after she moves to Stockholm and stops writing. When letters cease, Jan retreats into fantasy, imagining himself as a great Emperor and his daughter as an empress. In his delusions, he challenges social hierarchies while awaiting her return, unaware of her true circumstances in the city.
Valda Berättelser With Notes and Vocabulary
"Valda Berättelser" by Selma Lagerlöf is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The stories reflect Lagerlöf’s deep engagement with Swedish culture, folklore, and the human condition, often weaving elements of fantasy and spiritual themes into the narrative. Significant figures include mythic characters as well as historical ones, such as King Gustav III, who features prominently at the start of the collection. The opening of the anthology introduces the story "Silvergruvan," which begins with an account of King Gustav III's travels through Dalarna, where he is caught in a delayed journey due to a broken carriage. While waiting, he observes the local people, noting their impressive appearance despite the poverty of the region. This encounter leads him to deliver a speech to the locals about the dire state of the kingdom, urging them to assist in the fight against enemies. The narrative interweaves the complexities of social classes, the connection between the king and his subjects, and hints at a mysterious silver mine discovered by villagers, setting the stage for unfolding events that explore themes of greed, duty, and the moral consequences of newfound wealth.
The outcast
"The Outcast" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set on the island of Grimön off the western coast of Sweden, the story revolves around the strained relationship of a couple, Joel and Mor Elversson, who are grappling with their past decisions and the fate of their son, Sven. The narrative explores themes of abandonment, societal judgment, and the complexities of familial love, particularly focusing on Sven, who has returned home under fraught circumstances. The opening of the story introduces Joel and Mor Elversson, whose contrasting personalities are highlighted during a seemingly mundane conversation about mundane matters. As they discuss their son, Sven, who they gave away to a wealthy couple years ago, the reader senses the tension and regret underlying their dialogue. Mor is particularly troubled by the choices they made, especially after learning of Sven's troubled return from abroad following a disastrous Arctic expedition. The couple's exchange hints at the emotional turmoil each feels regarding societal rejection and the haunting memories of their son, setting a somber tone for the unfolding of Sven's troubled past and his longing for acceptance.
Peukaloisen retket villihanhien seurassa
"Peukaloisen retket villihanhien seurassa" by Selma Lagerlöf is a children's novel published in 1906-1907. When fourteen-year-old Nils Holgersson is mysteriously transformed, he embarks on an extraordinary journey across Sweden with a flock of wild geese. Originally commissioned as a geography textbook for Swedish schools, this tale blends adventure and education as young Nils discovers his country's landscapes, legends, and natural wonders from an entirely new perspective. The story has become a beloved classic of children's literature, translated into over forty languages.
Die schönsten Geschichten der Lagerlöf
"Die schönsten Geschichten der Lagerlöf" by Selma Lagerlöf is a collection of short stories likely written in the late 19th century. This anthology showcases the enchanting tales of Lagerlöf, a renowned Swedish author, highlighting themes of love, human nature, and the delicacy between the mundane and the mystical. The opening introduces readers to the author’s heartfelt connection with literature and her ability to portray the profound emotions and spiritual experiences of her characters. The opening portion of the book begins with a glowing introduction to Selma Lagerlöf by Walter von Molo, who emphasizes her deep understanding and representation of human emotions through storytelling. He asserts that Lagerlöf's narratives often blur the lines between reality and mysticism, embodying universal themes of love and redemption. Following this introduction, the story "Der Luftballon" is introduced, where two boys, Lennart and Hugo, are depicted as they embark on a train journey to Stockholm with their estranged father. Their relationship is complicated by their father’s troubled past and alcoholism, leading them to escape into their imaginative world filled with adventures while grappling with their harsh reality. The narrative captures the children's longing for hope and the fleeting moments of joy sparked by a hot air balloon seen from their train.
Invisible Links
"Invisible Links" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a small, tightly-knit town and focuses on the central character, Petter Nord—a charming and mischievous boy from Värmland. Petter's journey intertwines themes of community, personal ambition, and the conflict between love and morality as he navigates the complexities of growing up. The opening of the novel introduces the idyllic and familiar setting of the town and introduces Petter Nord, who has won the affection of its residents through his playful nature and mechanical tricks. However, as the plot develops, Petter stumbles upon a hidden banknote and becomes consumed by the thoughts of wealth and revenge against a shopkeeper who has wronged him. The narrative reveals his struggles as he grapples with idealism, the yearning for acceptance, and the conflict between his desires and moral obligations. Ultimately, there's a transition from his innocent and carefree childhood to a confrontation with societal expectations and personal integrity, foreshadowing the deeper dilemmas he will face as he seeks belonging and identity in his world.
Le Livre des Légendes
"Le Livre des Légendes" by Selma Lagerlöf is a collection of legends and tales written in the early 20th century. This work blends elements of folklore with Lagerlöf's poetic narrative style, exploring themes of love, loss, and the interconnectedness of human experiences. The collection begins with a reflective piece on the personal significance of receiving the Nobel Prize, suggesting an introspective and heartfelt exploration of the author's journey. The opening of the book introduces the author on a train journey to Stockholm, where she reflects on her past experiences associated with the city, particularly the contrasting emotions tied to her previous visits and the current honor she is about to receive. As she grapples with the joy of her achievement and the sadness of missing her deceased father, she also recalls the many literary influences that have shaped her work, framing her award as a debt she owes to the poets and stories that have inspired her. This establishes a poignant foundation for the stories that follow, hinting at the blend of personal and universal themes present in the subsequent legends.
Gösta Berling: Erzählungen aus dem alten Wermland
"Gösta Berling: Erzählungen aus dem alten Wermland" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel published in 1891. Set in 1820s Värmland, Sweden, it follows a disgraced pastor who becomes leader of a group of cavaliers living on the Ekeby estate. These former officers and impoverished nobles spend their days in revelry, love affairs, and entertainment. When they strike a dangerous bargain with the devil, their carefree existence takes a darker turn, forcing Gösta through transformative experiences that will test his character.
Portugallian keisari : $b Kertomus Vermlannista
"Portugallian keisari: Kertomus Vermlannista" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel published in 1914. Set in rural Värmland, it tells the story of tenant farmer Jan and his beloved daughter Glory Goldie Sunnycastle. When she moves to Stockholm and her letters stop coming, Jan retreats into a fantasy world where she has become an empress of "Portugallia"—making him an emperor. In his imagined imperial role, he challenges local social hierarchies while awaiting her triumphant return. Lagerlöf herself called it a "Swedish King Lear."
Niels Holgersson's Wonderbare Reis
"Niels Holgersson's Wonderbare Reis" by Selma Lagerlöf and Margaretha Meijboom is a children's book written in 1906. Young Nils Holgersson delights in tormenting farm animals until an angry kabouter shrinks him to thumb-size. When wild geese fly overhead, Nils unexpectedly joins them on their journey north to Lapland. Traveling across Sweden on the back of a goose, the tiny boy faces danger, adventure, and life lessons that transform him in unexpected ways.
Bannlyst
"Bannlyst" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel published in 1918. The story follows Sven, a man haunted by a dark secret from a polar expedition that makes him an outcast in his community, and Sigrun, a young woman trapped in an increasingly violent marriage to a jealous priest. As their paths intersect, the narrative explores themes of social condemnation, survival, and moral judgment, questioning which transgressions are truly unforgivable—crimes against the living or the dead.
Aarne herran rahat: Kertomus
"Aarne herran rahat: Kertomus" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of greed, survival, and retribution through the journeys and experiences of various characters, particularly focusing on a fishmonger named Torarin and his encounters with the wealthy clergyman Aarne and the outskirts of society. Set against the backdrop of a harsh Scandinavian winter, the narrative hints at deeper conflicts rooted in the past, especially with the mysterious circumstances surrounding Aarne's wealth. The opening of the book introduces us to Torarin, a struggling fishmonger navigating a rough winter as he transports his goods. He speaks animatedly to his dog, Grim, while pondering the local news about the sea freezing over. As he decides to visit Solberg's vicarage to hear if the rumors are true, we meet Aarne, a distinguished yet aging cleric, surrounded by his household amidst a dinner filled with tension. The conversation quickly shifts when the old household matriarch expresses concerns about ominous happenings suggested by distant noises, which escalates the tension in the otherwise mundane setting. Amidst all this, Torarin reflects on Aarne's wealth, rumored to be linked to ill-gotten gains, setting the stage for themes of jealousy and foreshadowing more sinister undertones in the story.