# Translator's Preface explained — The Story of Gösta Berling

> Chapter companion for The Story of Gösta Berling by Selma Lagerlöf.

## What happens

The preface introduces Selma Lagerlöf's Gösta Berling, published in 1894, describing its basis in actual occurrences and its depiction of life in early 19th-century Värmland, Sweden—a region of forests, lakes, and mining. It notes Lagerlöf's deep connection to local legends and the encouragement she received from the Crown Prince.

## Key lines

> The tales are founded on actual occurrences and depict the life in the province of Värmland at the beginning of this century.

The stories are based on real events and portray early 19th-century life in Värmland.

_Establishes the historical and regional foundation of the narratives._

> Miss Lagerlöf has grown up in the midst of the wild legends of her country, and, deeply imbued with their spirit, interprets them with a living force all her own.

Lagerlöf was raised surrounded by Sweden's wild legends and brings them to life with her unique vitality.

_Highlights the author's personal connection to folklore and her distinctive storytelling._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_g_sta_berling_se/chapters/translator-s-preface
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_g_sta_berling_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_g_sta_berling_se/chapters