Finland today is a technologically advanced welfare state, a social democracy that shares a great deal with its Nordic neighbors, 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 music, literature, folklore, art, architecture, film, and popular culture. We will also examine the concept of national identity – what creates a community, a people? What, exactly, is a baby box, does the language really lack the concept of future, are Finns the most introverted people of the world, and do they honestly go to the sauna several times a week? Come and find out!

Texts:
Lavery, Jason. The History of Finland.
Course Reader:

Includes articles on history, society, politics, art, and literature, as well as literary texts by classic and modern authors. Excerpts of Kaleva in translation, and articles provided by guest speakers TBA. Accessible on bCourses

Requirements:
3 quizzes (15%)
In-class midterm (20%)
In-class final exam (25%)
Attendance and participation in classroom discussion, and group/pair work  (15%)
Presentation (15%)
3 Homework assignments (10%)

Prerequisites: None. Taught in English; readings in English.