Kullervo

by Aleksis Kivi

"Kullervo" by Aleksis Kivi is a five-act tragedy written in 1859 and published in 1864. Based on the Kullervo story from the Finnish epic Kalevala, it follows a young man sold into slavery after family feuds. Consumed by social shame and bitterness, Kullervo spreads vengeance and hatred, committing terrible acts including murder and unknowingly seducing his own sister. The play is considered Finland's first Finnish-language tragedy.