Finnish Folklore
ISBN: , SKU: , AUTHOR: Virtanen, Leea / DuBois, Thomas, PUBLISHER: University of Washington Press, Finnish Folklore surveys the study of folklore in Finland and provides an overview of Finnish folk culture in the past and present. The country's regional variations are introduced and detailed information is given regarding Finland's longstanding cultural minorities, the Swedish-speaking Finns, the Sami (Lapps), and Rom (Gypsies). The culture of Finns outside of Finland is also surveyed, including the Finnish-American communities of North America. Particular attention is paid to the pervasive and complex cultural changes that occurred during Finland's rapid industrialization in the 20th century. The customs and culture of the agrarian Finland of the past contrast markedly with that of the technologically sophisticated, affluent Finland of today. A substantial anthology section provides original examples of the various genres of Finnish folklore, many with dual-language texts, musical notation, and explanatory notes. Finnish Folklore is ideal for the serious folklorist as well as the general reader interested in learning more about this fascinating northern country.