W. F. (William Forsell) Kirby
The Hero of Esthonia and Other Studies in the Romantic Literature of That Country
"The Hero of Esthonia and Other Studies in the Romantic Literature of That Country" by W.F. Kirby is a collection of studies and prose adaptations centered around Estonian mythology and folklore, published in the late 19th century. The text presents the national epic "Kalevipoeg," alongside various Estonian folk tales, ballads, and poetry, aimed at introducing English readers to the rich cultural heritage of Estonia. The central figure of "Kalevipoeg" is a legendary hero, the son of Kalev, who embarks on a series of adventures that reflect the struggles of his people against mystical and human adversaries. At the start of the work, the author provides a preface that outlines his motivations for compiling these tales, highlighting the significance of the "Kalevipoeg" in Estonian literature. The introduction offers an overview of Estonia's geographical and cultural background, setting the stage for the epic and the folklore that follows. The opening portion recounts the early life of Kalevipoeg, detailing his lineage, the mystical circumstances of his birth, and the introduction of other pivotal figures such as his mother Linda and father Kalev. The narrative begins to weave together themes of love, loss, and heroic deeds, providing readers a glimpse into the epic's complexity as well as its emotional depth, all of which are further explored as the tale unfolds.