Rajaviiva: Yhteiskunnallinen Maalaisromaani

A novel written in the early 20th century, specifically after World War I. The narrative explores the lives of rural characters in Finland, focusing on themes of class struggle, land ownership, and the effects of political upheaval on local communities. Central to the story are the Hautamäki brothers, particularly Jaakko, the responsible eldest sibling, and Ville, the carefree middle brother who struggles between his desires and duties. At the start of the story, the Hautamäki household is depicted through the laborious setting of a day spent farming and the tensions brewing among its members due to the increased presence of Russian soldiers in their region. Jaakko reflects on the impact of the occupation on their livelihoods, expressing concern for the future and the growing dissatisfaction of their labor force. This is juxtaposed with Ville's carefree attitude towards work, as he is more interested in the companionship of local women. The dynamics among the brothers are established against the backdrop of societal changes driven by war and Socialist influences, which complicate their rural existence and foreshadow the conflicts that will arise as the narrative unfolds.