Gustav Adolf Day focuses on Scandinavian values 

On 6 November, the Department of Scandinavia Studies will organise the Gustav Adolf Day. The event will begin with a half-day symposium, followed by a cultural part. 

The symposium, starting at 10 a.m., focuses on typical Scandinavian values and their role in Estonia. The focus is on their meaning, background and representation in contemporary Scandinavian society. It will also discuss how the different history of Sweden and Estonia in the 20th century affects the attitude of Estonians towards Scandinavian values. The goal of the discussion is to increase the understanding and cooperation between Estonia and Sweden. Among the speakers are Kristi Raik (Head of the Foreign Policy Programme at the International Center for Defense and Security), Hannu Salmi (Professor at the University of Helsinki), Maie Kitsing (Estonian Ministry of Education and Research), and Mikko Lagerspetz (Professor of Sociology at Åbo Akademi University).

The cultural part, starting at 4 p.m., will focus on two Swedish lyrical poets who lived in the middle of the 17th century – Lars Wivallius and Samuel Columbus. Daniel Sävborg, Professor of Scandinavian Studies, introduces them as poets and personalities – for example, the life of Wivallius was extremely adventurous. Scandinavian Studies students recite the Estonian translations of the lyrics, and the soprano Hermine Aints will sing songs by them in the original tunes. There will also be a concert of music from the same era. Snacks and wine will be provided.

The event is free, and everyone is welcome.

The Department of Scandinavian Studies has been celebrating the day dedicated to the King of Sweden and the founder of the Estonian National University, Gustav Adolf, since 2010.

See the programme