Mor i Sutre

by Hjalmar Bergman

"Mor i Sutre" by Hjalmar Bergman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a rural Swedish community and revolves around the titular character, the matriarch Mor i Sutre, as she navigates the complexities of family, societal expectations, and her own desires. The narrative explores themes of motherhood, relationships, and the nature of justice, particularly through Mor i Sutre's interactions with her husband and children. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the gästgivarn (innkeeper) and his wife, Mor i Sutre, whose unconventional marriage and household dynamics set the stage for the unfolding drama. The gästgivarn is characterized by his disdain for injustice, particularly as it relates to women, which is reflected in his interactions with both Mor i Sutre and a young girl who joins them. The opening presents a blend of humor and tension, showcasing Mor i Sutre's strong personality as she reflects on her role within the family and society, while dealing with the arrival of new tensions brought by her children and their life choices.