Risto is the most over-the-top villainous husband imaginable: he married only for money (and broke his engagement to a young half-gypsy girl, Homsantuu - a promise he was unlikely to intend to keep), he's a drunkard, doesn't work (unlike Johanna, who tries desperately to support her family), steals shamelessly from his wife and child, continues to seduce and torment Homsantuu, is completely unphased by his wife's death and immediately attempts to propose to another woman, Vappu.Ī story of the plight of women in oppressive societies and/or marriages is one worth telling, and it's great that Canth dared to explore these themes in her various writings. The story shows a young woman's (Johanna) disastrous marriage to a scoundrel, Risto, which leads to her living in poverty and misery, and eventually dying at a young age. And that's probably exactly what the author intended. This play was black, bleak and infuriating from beginning to end. This is another classic that a lot of people love (and I can understand why) but that I wish I hadn't had to read. Give me a retelling of this story with her as the main character (one in which she doesn't miss her mark).

Also, Kerttu/Homsantuu is f*cking badass. It's short, easy to get through and one of the few Finnish classics that's actually, you know, good. The opinions voiced in the play are bold and unapologetic, and the hypocrisy of their opposition is beautifully illustrated in the upper middle class's touting of religious dogma and victim blaming, something that sadly rings true even in today's world.Įven if 19th century literature isn't really your thing (trust me, it isn't mine either), I recommend you give this book a try. Every scene is essential to the story with none of the standard 19th century waffle to wade through. I actually read this book in one sitting, eager to know what happens next. Unlike the alleged masterpieces produced by her contemporaries, Minna Canth's work has withstood the test of time admirably and manages to create drama and interactions that even the modern reader can relate to and sympathize with. Seriously, this book was so good that it almost makes up for all the lousy reading experiences that preceded it. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the best author of 19th century Finland.

Tyomiehen vaimo