The image of Askeladden in Norwegian fairy tales and its reception in modern culture

Askeladden is one of the most popular protagonists of Norwegian fairy tales. Currently, his image is found both in folklore and in literary works. The purpose of the research is to identify significant character traits and plot features of fairy tales in which he is depicted. Askeladden is an unpromising hero. He is covered in ashes, poorly dressed and often spends time by the hearth. Furthermore, the connection with ash, coal and stove is embedded in his nickname. Askeladden is despised by other characters, seems lazy, narrow-minded, dreamy. He is usually the youngest child in a poor family, who becomes involved in conflicts with his brothers. He is characterized by mercy and compassion, but he can similarly act as a deceiver and a cunning man. Unexpectedly, this contemptible character performs feats or receives the support of miraculous powers. One of the most common achievements is killing a troll. The duality of the image is also noted. Askeladden usually turns out to be a typical hero of a fairy tale, undergoes a transformation and becomes a king. However, there are plots in which the main theme is an intellectual duel, clever deception. In such cases, the hero resembles characters of household folktales and sometimes has features of a trickster. In addition, the article examines the reception of the image of Askeladden in modern popular culture. The widespread use of the unpromising hero type, the archetypal plot, the provocative image and the trickster features make Askeladden’s figure productive for creative reinterpretation.

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