# Rune XXVII: The Unwelcome Guest explained — The Kalevala

> Chapter companion for The Kalevala by Elias Lönnrot.

## What happens

Lemminkainen arrives unbidden at the wedding feast in Pohyola, where he is insulted by the host and hostess. After a tense exchange, he challenges the host to a sword duel, kills him, and spits his head on a picket. The hostess Ilpotar then summons warriors to seek revenge.

## Themes in this chapter

### Revenge and Retribution

Lemminkainen's killing of the host and the hostess's subsequent call for vengeance highlight the cycle of revenge.

### Conflict Between North and South

The tension between the hero from the south (Lemminkainen) and the northern hosts of Pohyola underscores the regional rivalry.

## Character check-ins

### Lemminkainen

Arrives uninvited to the feast, insults the host, kills him in a duel, and spits his head on a picket.

### Louhi

Referred to as Ilpotar, the hostess of Pohyola, who initially refuses Lemminkainen food and drink, then later summons warriors against him.

### Ilmarinen

Not directly present in this chapter.

### Wainamoinen

Not directly present in this chapter.

## Key lines

> I have brought young Kaukomieli, Brought the Islander and hero, Also known as Lemminkainen, Through the jaws of death and ruin, Through the darkling deeps of Kalma, To the homesteads of Pohyola, To the dismal courts of Louhi;

The narrator introduces Lemminkainen, who has traveled through dangerous realms to reach Louhi's domain.

_Opening lines set the stage for Lemminkainen's perilous journey and arrival._

> Spake the reckless Lemminkainen: 'As a guest am I unwelcome, Since the waiters bring no viands, Bring no dishes to the stranger?'

Lemminkainen complains that he is being treated poorly because no food is offered to him.

_Highlights the breach of hospitality that triggers the conflict._

> Quick as lightning, Lemminkainen, With his father's blade of battle, With a single blow of broadsword, With united skill and power, Lopped the head of Pohya's master;

Lemminkainen swiftly decapitates the host with one powerful strike of his sword.

_Climactic moment of the duel, showing Lemminkainen's prowess and the fatal outcome._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kalevala_se/chapters/rune-xxvii-the-unwelcome-guest
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kalevala_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kalevala_se/chapters