Ants Raudjalg: Virolainen Kertomus

A novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the backdrop of Northern Livonia and offers a vivid depiction of its landscape, alongside the life and experiences of the main character, Ants Raudjalg, whose family ties and upbringing are significant themes in the narrative. The opening of the novel immerses the reader in the natural beauty of the North Livonian scenery, describing secluded lakes and marshy lands, which serve to create a reflective atmosphere. Ants is introduced as the son of a local clerk and schoolteacher, Mihkel Raudjalg, who is dedicated to his duties even on a Sunday. As Ants navigates his childhood, he witnesses his father's strong sense of duty and responsibility, which begins to shape his understanding of familial obligations and his own aspirations. The initial chapters explore themes of legacy, memory, and the contrast between the innocence of childhood and the pressures of adult expectations marked by Ants’ deep admiration for his father.