Finnish culture, history, society, and arts. Readings and discussion in English.

Finland today is a technologically advanced welfare state, a social democracy that shares a great deal with other Nordic nations yet has retained a vibe of its own. What makes Finland stand apart from its neighbors? Perhaps because of its unique language which is not related to the Scandinavian or Slavic languages, or its geopolitically interesting location between East and West? Maybe its fascinating national epic, the Kalevala, modern curiosities such the sport of wife-carrying, the basic income experiment, or Clash of Clans – brainchild of a Finnish gaming company? During this course we will walk though 100 years of Finnish history in the context of the turbulent times in Europe and Russia, explore a variety of cultural expressions such as folklore, art, literature, architecture, film, and popular culture. We will also examine the concepts of national identity – what creates a community, a people, a nation? What, exactly, is a baby box, does the language really lack the concept of future, are Finns the most introverted yet happiest people of the world, and do they honestly go to the sauna several times a week? Come and find out! Course Reader: Includes articles on history, society, politics, art, as well as literary texts by classic and modern authors. Articles provided by guest speakers TBA. All materials are accessible on bCourses.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills