Release date is 2015-02-06

E-text prepared by Jari Koivisto

"Kantele Taikka Suomen Kansan sekä Wanhoja että Nykyisempiä Runoja ja Lauluja, I" by Elias Lönnrot is a collection of Finnish folk poems and songs compiled during the early 19th century. This work showcases traditional Finnish oral literature, capturing the essence of the culture through its collection of ancient and contemporary verses. The book not only serves to preserve the lyrical heritage of Finland but also highlights themes of nature, spirituality, love, and communal values present in Finnish folklore. The collection is divided into two main parts: old poems representing ancient folk beliefs and practices, and contemporary poems that reflect recent experiences and societal changes. It includes various types of verses such as incantations for hunting, prayers for safety and victory in battle, and songs celebrating love and courtship. Characters like the legendary figure Väinämöinen and references to local customs provide a rich tapestry of the Finnish national identity, illustrating the depth of its tradition and connection to the natural world. These poems exemplify Finland’s cultural heritage and the importance of storytelling in Finnish society. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

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