Release date is 2024-03-04

Tapio Riikonen

"Kilpakosijat: Kaksinäytöksinen pila" by Evald Jakku is a comedic play written in the late 1920s. This work centers on themes of love, courtship, and societal expectations surrounding marriage, capturing the dynamics between characters in a rural setting. It humorously portrays the old customs of courtship contrasted with the desires of the younger generation. The story unfolds with Raski, the farm owner, who is caught between the interests of his daughter, Elli, and a suitor named Mikko Möykky. While Mikko, a wealthy prospective husband, seeks Raski’s approval, Elli has her heart set on Antti, a humble farmhand. The narrative revolves around comedic misunderstandings and clever schemes orchestrated by Esko, a friend of Antti, who aims to prevent Mikko from winning Elli’s hand. The play uses humor to navigate themes of class, love, and the generational clash of values, ultimately working towards the resolution of Elli’s love for Antti, defying expectations and affirming her desires against societal pressures. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Originally published: Hämeenlinna: Arvi A. Karisto Oy, 1928