VABADUSSÕDA 1930. AASTATE EESTI ROMAANIS
The Estonian War of Independence as Reflected in the Estonian Novel of the 1930s

Summary/Abstract: The 1930s were eventful both in the world at large and in Estonia, where on 12 March 1934 a coup d’état introduced the so-called silent era, with democratic rights limited. Positivity and national identity became important keywords in the society. In literature historical novels were in the foreground. Heroic acts by forefathers were to strengthen national feeling and togetherness. This article surveys novels that deal with the Estonian War of Independence (1918–1920). Four novels are under observation: these are Isamaa eest („Pro patria”, 1935) by Kalju Rahu, Esimene armastus („First love”, 1935) by Richard Roht, Isade maa („Fatherland”, 1935) by August Gailit, and Nimed marmortahvlil („Names in marble”, 1936) by Albert Kivikas. Rahu’s Isamaa eest depicts the War of Independence as an adventure, a heroic battle with schematic black-and-white characters. Kivikas’ Nimed marmortahvlil is the opposite, depicting the War of Independence in a versatile, realistic way and the characters are convincing psychologically. Roht’s Esimene armastus emphasizes, in quite a pathetic style, the importance of first love (here: love towards homeland) and a belief in victory, which finally leads to victory. Gailit’s Isade maa depicts the War of Independence as a daring and romantic adventure, where an important role is played by anecdotal events and luck.

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