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It seems there might be a confusion in the authorship of "Kalevala." "Kalevala" is a Finnish epic poem that was compiled and written by Elias Lönnrot, not John Martin Crawford. Crawford was, however, responsible for translating the work into English. Let me provide you with a detailed summary of "Kalevala."

Title: Kalevala - The Epic Poem of Finland

Author: Elias Lönnrot (compiled), John Martin Crawford (translator)

Summary:

Kalevala is a compilation of ancient Finnish oral poetry, primarily collected and arranged by Elias Lönnrot in the 19th century. Lönnrot, a Finnish scholar and folklorist, traveled extensively in rural Finland, gathering folk poems and songs from the Karelian and Finnish oral tradition. He then organized and synthesized these materials into a coherent narrative, resulting in the creation of Kalevala, first published in its final form in 1849.

The epic is divided into fifty cantos and revolves around the lives and adventures of the heroic figures, especially Väinämöinen, Ilmarinen, and Lemminkäinen. Väinämöinen is a wise old sage and a powerful bard with magical abilities, while Ilmarinen is a skilled blacksmith, and Lemminkäinen is a charismatic and adventurous hero.

The central narrative of Kalevala is built around the quest for the Sampo, a magical artifact that brings prosperity and good fortune. The characters embark on various journeys and face numerous challenges, encountering mythological creatures and engaging in epic battles along the way. The Sampo becomes a symbol of hope and abundance, and its pursuit becomes a driving force for the characters.

The themes of Kalevala include the power of poetry and song, the struggle between good and evil, the importance of nature, and the interconnectedness of all living things. The epic also provides insights into the cultural and social life of ancient Finns, showcasing their beliefs, rituals, and worldview.

The poem is known for its distinctive rhythm and meter, reflecting the cadence of oral poetry. Lönnrot's contribution in collecting and shaping these folk traditions into a coherent narrative has been crucial in preserving and promoting Finnish cultural identity. John Martin Crawford's translation into English has enabled a broader audience to access this rich and unique piece of world literature.

In essence, Kalevala stands as a testament to the rich oral tradition of the Finnish people, offering a captivating and timeless exploration of mythology, heroism, and the human connection with nature.

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More: Kalevala, Finnish epic poem, JOHN MARTIN CRAWFORD
audiobook, full length, Finnish mythology
Väinämöinen, Lemminkäinen, Ilmarinen
Sampo, creation myth, adventure
love, magic, Finnish culture
language, tradition

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