Norwegian Literature as a Resource for Diversity in Education

Exploring Hamsun, Undset, and Bjørnson
1. Auflage 2026
ISBN: 978-1-041-34282-3
Verlag: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Buch, Englisch, 248 Seiten, Format (B × H): 152 mm x 229 mm

Reihe: Among the Victorians and Modernists

This interdisciplinary monograph examines the potential of Norwegian literary classics by Knut Hamsun, Sigrid Undset, and Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson to advance diversity and inclusivity in education. Drawing on postcolonial theory, critical race studies, and gender critique, the book explores how these canonical texts can be reinterpreted as tools for fostering intercultural empathy and encouraging critical dialogue about societal norms, identities, and power structures.

While acknowledging the complexities and controversies surrounding these authors, the book offers a balanced critique that both interrogates and celebrates their works. It provides innovative pedagogical strategies for integrating classic literature into contemporary educational practices, demonstrating how these texts can be used to challenge traditional narratives and promote inclusivity in the classroom.

By bridging literary analysis with critical theory and educational practice, this work invites academics, educators, and students to reconsider the role of classic literature in shaping more equitable and empathetic learning environments. It positions Norwegian literary heritage as a dynamic resource for addressing pressing questions about identity, diversity, and social justice in today’s globalized world. This book is an essential contribution to the fields of literary studies, education, and critical pedagogy.

Zielgruppe

Academic and Postgraduate

Autoren/Hrsg.

Thomas, Paul

Fachgebiete

• Sozialwissenschaften Pädagogik Pädagogik Bildungssystem Vergleichende und Empirische Bildungsforschung
• Sozialwissenschaften Pädagogik Teildisziplinen der Pädagogik Multikulturelle Pädagogik, Friedenserziehung
• Geisteswissenschaften Literaturwissenschaft Literarische Strömungen & Epochen
• Geisteswissenschaften Literaturwissenschaft Literaturwissenschaft: Prosa, Erzählung, Roman, Prosaautoren

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Introduction

PART I

1. Hamsun’s Growth of the Soil: Celebrating Self-Reliance

2. Johann Gottlieb, Teutonic Ideals and Hamsun’s racism

3. Hamsun, Luther, and the Sacredness of Whiteness

4. Inger’s Journey in Hamsun’s Forest: Bound but Strong

5. Isak as Homo Economicus: Capitalism and Colonial Mindsets

6. White mobility: Village to Forest and Sellenrå to the USA

7. Applying Dialogic Theory to Hamsun’s Growth of the Soil

PART II

8. Garlands of Honor: Kristin Lavransdatter and Izzat

9. Kristin Lavransdatter: A Mirror of Religious and Cultural Evolution

10. Father-Daughter Bonds in Kristin Lavransdatter

11. Foucault, Kristin Lavransdatter, and the Patriarchal Panopticon

12. Romantic Hierarchies: Class in the Garland

13. Lady Åshild: A Postcolonial Challenge to Religious Hegemony

14. Applying a Pedagogy of Discomfort to Kristin Lavransdatter

Part III

15. Solbakken & Granliden: Bjørnson’s Intercultural Shadows

16. Rural Roots, Urban Realities: Synnøve Solbakken and Intercultural Identity

17. Words as Weapons: Symbolic Violence in Bjørnson’s Tale

18. The Scars of Abandonment: From Aslak to Afghanistan

19. Church and School in Synnøve Solbakken: Norway’s Civilizing Missions

20. Reclaiming Emigration: From Synnøve Solbakken to Coming to America

21. Applying Postcolonial Pedagogy to Bjørnson’s Synnøve Solbakken

Conclusion

Über Autor(innen)

Paul Thomas (PhD, King’s College, London) is a Professor at the University of South-Eastern Norway, Institute of Pedagogy, Department of Educational Science at the Faculty of Humanities, Sports and Educational Science. His academic expertise spans multicultural and religious education, emphasizing the intersection of religion, science, and pedagogy. Thomas has authored several books of which recent ones include: Media and Education: Addressing Racism in Norway published by Brill (2025), Education and Cultural Evolution in Norway’s Multiethnic Society: Bridges to Belonging published by Springer Nature (2025) and Too Black to Be Here? Exploring Racism in Norway through Four Critical Case Studies (Emerald). His research often explores issues of diversity, race, and inclusion, critically analyzing Norwegian society’s multicultural realities. A co-leader of the research group “Minorities and Education”, Thomas actively engages in media debates, public lectures, and policy discussions, advocating for diversity and inclusion in education. His work aims to promote critical pedagogy and combat racism, fostering dialogue and understanding across diverse communities.