Subject
Finnish drama -- 20th century Books
Best books
Frans Talaskivi
Kahden tulen välissä : $b Kolminäytöksinen huvinäytelmä
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Konrad Lehtimäki
Etuvartiotaistelu : $b Kolminäytöksinen näytelmä
"Etuvartiotaistelu : Kolminäytöksinen näytelmä" by Konrad Lehtimäki is a three-act play written in the early 20th century. The narrative is set during the formative years of the labor movement in Finland and revolves around the lives of factory workers. The main characters include Vilho Korpi, a factory worker, and his family, as well as Kaarlo Suonpää, a young machine worker, shedding light on the struggles and aspirations of working-class individuals during a time of social upheaval. At the start of the play, we are introduced to the Korpi family as they prepare for Christmas amid difficult economic conditions. The scene opens with Anni, the daughter, decorating the Christmas tree, illustrating her youthful innocence and hopefulness. However, this idyllic setting is soon contrasted with hints of underlying tension regarding labor rights, hinted at through the characters' conversations about the challenges they face in their jobs. As the family gathers, themes of love, hardship, and social injustice begin to unfold, setting the stage for a narrative that promises to explore not only personal relationships but also the collective fight for workers' rights, illuminating the broader struggle against oppression within the labor movement.
Larin-Kyösti
Aarteenkaivajat : $b Kolminäytöksinen hölmöläiskomedia
"Aarteenkaivajat: Kolminäytöksinen hölmöläiskomedia" by Larin-Kyösti is a comedic play written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the fictional village of Hölmölä and revolves around its quirky inhabitants as they navigate humorous situations and misunderstandings. The play features an ensemble cast, including characters like Jaska and Epra, who are involved in a dispute over land and are visited by a mysterious figure known as Maailman-Matti, introducing elements of absurdity and folly that characterize the community. The opening of the play introduces the main characters in a lively setting within Hölmölä. Jaska and Epra, two village tenants, humorously bicker about responsibilities and dream of riches, believing in the existence of hidden treasures in their land. Their conversation is punctuated by the arrival of Tikka, the herrastuomari (village judge), and Mesakki, the village bell-ringer, who add to the comedic scenario by discussing dreams, superstitions, and the arrival of a land measurer. The humor is underscored by misunderstandings and the playful absurdity of their dialogues, setting the stage for a whimsical exploration of themes like ambition, greed, and community dynamics in the following acts.
Ruupert Kainulainen
Ylioppilaan kosinta: 1-näytöksinen laulunsekainen kansannäytyelmä
"Ylioppilaan kosinta: 1-näytöksinen laulunsekainen kansannäytelmä" by Kainulainen is a comedic play written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a contemporary Finnish village and revolves around themes of love, social expectations, and aspirations. It captures the struggles of a young medical student, Heikki, as he seeks to marry Elli, despite facing opposition from her father, Juho, due to Heikki's humble background and his lack of financial stability. The plot unfolds with Heikki returning to his home village full of hopes, only to face challenges in gaining approval for his marriage to Elli. Juho is initially skeptical of Heikki's intentions, preferring a wealthier suitor for his daughter. As misunderstandings arise, including a theft and a wrongful accusation against Heikki, tension builds in the narrative. Ultimately, the play resolves with the revelation of the true culprits behind the theft, leading Juho to accept Heikki as a suitable husband for Elli. The story combines humor with moments of drama, emphasizing the importance of love and perseverance in overcoming societal barriers.
Valto Edward Aaltio
Sokkosilla: Yksinäytöksinen huvittelu
"Sokkosilla: Yksinäytöksinen huvittelu" by Valto Edward Aaltio is a one-act comedic play written in the early 20th century, specifically around the 1900s. The narrative centers on Elma Terho, an orphaned girl living with her wealthy aunt in the capital city, and explores themes of love, social class, and the intricacies of romantic relationships. The story unfolds in a modestly furnished room in the aunt's home, showcasing the engagements and interactions among various characters, including Elma, her suitor Toivo, the music teacher Hervenius, and his friend Raponen. The play primarily revolves around Elma's affections and the comedic misunderstandings that ensue when she is courted by multiple suitors, including the more financially motivated Raponen. During a social gathering at her aunt's home, misunderstandings regarding their intentions are presented humorously, leading to Elma's clever manipulations of the unfolding situations. Ultimately, the play culminates in a joyful resolution with the announcement of engagements, revealing the characters’ true feelings while highlighting the comedic elements of social dynamics and love. The intricate relationships paired with witty dialogue and engaging scenarios make this work a delightful examination of the interplay between love and social expectations.
Veikko Korhonen
Metsien mies : $b Kolminäytöksinen näytelmä
"Metsien mies : Kolminäytöksinen näytelmä" by Veikko Korhonen is a three-act play written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds in a rural setting where the main character, Nevalainen, struggles with the harsh realities of life in the forest and the impact it has on his relationships with his family and neighbors. The play poignantly explores themes of love, loss, and the connection to nature, reflecting the complexities of rural existence during this era. The story revolves around Nevalainen, a woodsman who grapples with melancholy and solitude, feeling increasingly disconnected from both his family and the community. His wife, Elina, and daughter, Marjatta, epitomize the struggles of living in isolation, while also reflecting on their own pasts and identities. Various characters, including a laborer named Tuura and a farmer named Antero, bring additional dynamics to the plot, revealing societal pressures and the need for acceptance. As the narrative progresses, secrets from the past threaten to unravel the fragile existence they have built, culminating in tragic consequences and deep emotions that resonate throughout the play.
Larin-Kyösti
Tapiolassa : $b Satukuvaelma
"Tapiolassa: Satukuvaelma" by Larin-Kyösti is a narrative poem written in the early 20th century. This book falls within the genre of fantasy literature, drawing from Finnish folklore and mythology. It likely explores themes related to nature, the relationships between humans and forest spirits, and the whimsical narratives of beings residing within the mystical essence of the forest. The story unfolds in a vibrant forest setting known as Tapiola, where various characters, including Tapio, the king of the forest, and his son Nyyrikki, encounter a range of fantastical beings and events. The narrative weaves together the life of Lippo, a young man who gets caught up in the enchanting world of forest spirits and the conflicts resulting from the mischievous Hiisi and his harakka (magpie). Tensions arise within the forest community, prompting Lippo to take action, leading to mesmerizing interactions filled with whimsical dialogues, songs, and the mystical atmosphere of the forest. Ultimately, the tale portrays the importance of nature and harmony, capturing the essence of Finnish fairy tales while highlighting the interplay between human desires and the serene beauty of the woods.
Larin-Kyösti
Ad astra: Yömaalarin unelma seitsemässä kuvaelmassa
"Ad astra: Yömaalarin unelma seitsemässä kuvaelmassa" by Larin-Kyösti is a dramatic work likely written in the early 20th century. This play explores profound themes of existence, despair, and artistic struggle through the experiences of the main character, an artist grappling with his turbulent thoughts and relationships. It delves into the deep psychological effects of love, loss, and the haunting presence of death in creative life. The opening portion of the play introduces us to a grim setting known as the "cursed chamber," where the protagonist, referred to as the Taituri (the Artist), awakens in a disoriented state. He dialogues with a fellow inmate who perceives himself as an emotional medium and reveals disturbing truths about their circumstances. The atmosphere is thick with unease as various characters, including the Harmaapukuinen nainen (Grey-clad woman) and the Tumma tohtori (Dark doctor), interject with surreal and often macabre reflections on life and death, foreshadowing the protagonist's descent into despair and his tumultuous past. The narrative juxtaposes artistic aspirations against a backdrop of madness and societal rejection, hinting at the artist's internal conflicts and his longing for connection amidst chaos.
Santeri Rissanen
Puhettako parantelemaan? : $b Yksinäytöksinen näyttämökohtaus
"Puhettako parantelemaan? : Yksinäytöksinen näyttämökohtaus" by Santeri Rissanen is a one-act play written in the early 20th century. The book presents a conversation among characters in a rural setting, focusing on themes of language, identity, and cultural values. It likely aims to highlight the importance of maintaining one's native language and cultural heritage in a changing society. In the play, the main characters gather in a farmhouse where they engage in a lively discussion about the status of the Finnish language and its various influences. They reflect on historical changes to the language due to foreign rule and the adoption of loanwords, while also emphasizing the significance of pure Finnish. Inkeri, one of the characters, recounts a presentation made by a learned figure regarding the necessity of cleaning up the language. The characters express a collective desire to appreciate and properly use their mother tongue, recognizing that the integrity of their language is intertwined with their identity as Finns. The narrative blends humor and earnestness, revealing the struggle to balance tradition with modern influences.
Eero Eerola
Kalevan uhri: Näytelmä 4:ssä näytöksessä
"Kalevan uhri: Näytelmä 4:ssä näytöksessä" by Eero Eerola is a dramatic play written in the early 20th century. This work portrays themes of heroism, betrayal, and the struggle for freedom within a mythical Finnish context, centered around the Kaleva clan. The narrative likely takes place around the time of Finland's struggles for independence and national identity. The play unfolds in four acts, chronicling the return of the Kaleva warriors after a significant battle against their enemies, showcasing their celebration as well as the tension and betrayal brewing among them. Key characters include Karhu, the clan's chief, and Heljä, his daughter, who play pivotal roles amidst the unfolding family and tribal dynamics. The story evolves as it reveals treachery within the ranks, particularly through the actions of Kullervo and Jouto, who conspire against the leadership of Karhu. As the plot progresses, alliances shift, culminating in a tragic confrontation that highlights the cost of betrayal and the quest for justice and integrity. Ultimately, the narrative merges themes of love, loss, and the resilience of the Kalevan people in the face of ruin and despair.
Larin-Kyösti
Lemminkäinen : $b Viisinäytöksinen näytelmä
"Lemminkäinen: Viisinäytöksinen näytelmä" by Larin-Kyösti is a dramatic work, likely written in the early 20th century. The play centers around the character Lemminkäinen, a legendary hero from Finnish folklore, exploring his relationships with women and the conflicts that arise from them, particularly with the powerful Louhi of Pohjola. Themes of love, heroism, and the supernatural are expected to be woven throughout the narrative, reflecting the cultural significance of its mythological roots. At the start of the play, we are introduced to a lively setting on a hill where young maidens discuss the absence of Kauko and Lemminkäinen, hinting at a forthcoming contest of some sort. Lemminkäinen is depicted as a charismatic figure who flirts with the maidens, particularly Kyllikki, while also displaying his boldness through banter with the local shepherd. Tensions escalate when Lemminkäinen's brash nature leads him to confront the issues surrounding love and loyalty, especially as he is warned about the perils posed by Louhi and the unknown dangers of the northern land. This opening sets the stage for a tale infused with both romantic intrigue and impending conflict.
Evald Jakku
Retusen velkojat : $b Ilveily 1:ssä näytöksessä
"Retusen velkojat: Ilveily 1:ssä näytöksessä" by Evald Jakku is a comedic play written in the early 20th century. This work, set in a modestly furnished living room, revolves around the chaotic and humorous interactions of a couple, Pekka and Kaisa Retunen, as they deal with their debts and the persistent arrival of creditors. The play explores themes of desperation, resourcefulness, and the lengths to which people will go to avoid their financial responsibilities. The story unfolds as Pekka Retunen contemplates his debt-laden life and concocts a plan to pretend to be dead in order to evade his creditors. Kaisa reluctantly goes along with his plan, even as various debt collectors arrive, leading to hilarious misunderstandings and antics. With each creditor believing Pekka to be deceased, the couple manages to dodge payments while dealing with their crumbling domestic life. As the plot progresses, the humor escalates through their interactions, culminating in a comical exploration of deceit, desperation, and the consequences of their financial recklessness. Ultimately, the play presents a lively commentary on debt and societal expectations, wrapped in a farcical narrative.
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