Riitta Valijärvi, an expert on Finnish language and culture, Thomas Dubois, a scholar of Scandinavian folklore, and Daniel Abondolo, a comparative epic poetry specialist, explore the impact of The Kalevala. They discuss how Elias Lönnrot’s compilation gave Finns a distinct national identity. The conversation delves into Finnish myths, the Sampo’s significance, and the epic's ties to modern cultural expressions. They also examine the linguistic uniqueness of Finnish poetry and the emotional depth within its narratives, reflecting on its lasting influence.
