The Many Faces of the Tomte
Who is that unseen elf that takes care of the animals on the farm? Join me as I interview Dr. Lotta Gavel Adams to understand the origins of the Swedish tomte, learn about Viktor Rydberg’s classic poem, and identify the major artists who have contributed to our picture of the tomte. We owe the concept of the jolly American Santa Claus to a Swedish illustrator too. We conclude the show with a 2020 recording of the Gustavus Adolphus College Lucia Singers performing the Sankta Lucia song accompanied by the Christ Chapel organ. A great way to celebrate by candlelight on long and dark winter nights.
Links
Dr. Gavel Adams talks about and reads from one of Tove Jansson’s Moomins books in this first of several “Expert Chats” recorded by the National Nordic Museum. If you’ve never heard of Moomins, this is a fun introduction and a chance to see Dr. Gavel Adams “live” in a video. Then you can continue with the YouTube videos for the Chats for parts II-IV.
The Gustavus Adolphus College St. Lucia Festivals show what the ceremony is like, with the choir singing the soundtrack which we used in the podcast. I like the 2020 recording because each member of the Lucia entourage talks about what the ceremony means to her. Even better, the 2020 St. Lucia is also more diverse and inclusive than I am used to seeing.
Photos
