The Kalevala · Chapter
Rune L: Mariatta—Wainamoinen’s Departure explained
Mariatta, a pure maiden, becomes impregnated by a mountain-berry and gives birth to a miraculous child in a stable.
What happens
Mariatta, a pure maiden, becomes impregnated by a mountain-berry and gives birth to a miraculous child in a stable. After the child is lost and found, Wirokannas baptizes him despite Wainamoinen's condemnation. Wainamoinen, recognizing his waning powers, sails away from Kalevala, leaving his harp and wisdom behind.
Themes in this chapter
Creation and Origins
The miraculous birth of Mariatta's child echoes creation myths and the origin of a new ruler.
Fate and Tragedy
Wainamoinen's departure and the judgment of the infant highlight themes of fate and inevitable change.
Departure of Wainamoinen
The chapter culminates in Wainamoinen's final departure from Kalevala.
Characters to notice
- Mariatta
Virgin-mother who conceives from a mountain-berry and gives birth to a holy child.
- Wainamoinen
Ancient wisdom-singer who judges the infant harshly but later departs from Kalevala.
- Wirokannas
Old priest who baptizes the child of Mariatta despite initial reluctance.
- Ukko
Invoked by Mariatta for protection during her time of trouble.
Key passages
“Mariatta, child of beauty, Grew to maidenhood in Northland, In the cabin of her father, In the chambers of her mother, Golden ringlets, silver girdles, Worn against the keys paternal, Glittering upon her bosom;”
Mariatta, a beautiful maiden, grew up in her father's home, adorned with golden ringlets and silver girdles.
Introduces Mariatta's pure and sheltered upbringing.
“Thereupon the horse, in pity, Breathed the moisture of his nostrils On the body of the virgin, Wrapped her in a cloud of vapor, Gave her warmth and needed comforts, Gave his aid to the afflicted, To the virgin, Mariatta.”
The horse, taking pity, breathed warm vapor over Mariatta, providing comfort and aid.
The miraculous birth scene in the stable.
“Thus the ancient Wainamoinen, In his copper-banded vessel, Left his tribe in Kalevala, Sailing o'er the rolling billows, Sailing through the azure vapors, Sailing through the dusk of evening, Sailing to the fiery sunset, To the higher-landed regions, To the lower verge of heaven;”
Wainamoinen sailed away from Kalevala in his copper boat, heading westward toward the sunset and the edge of heaven.
Wainamoinen's final departure from his homeland.