“The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

“The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson, first published in 1860 as part of the collection “Nova” (Night and Day), showcases Bjørnson’s exploration of qualities such as fatherly love, sacrifice, and the struggle for power, set against the context of a rural Norwegian community. Through the character of the Father, Bjørnson masterfully portrays the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of unchecked ambition, making this work a significant contribution to Norwegian literature.

Main Events in “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

1. A Proud Father: Thord Overaas, the wealthiest man in the parish, introduces his newborn son, Finn, to the priest and insists on a special baptism ceremony.
2. Focus on Ranking: Sixteen years later, Thord returns before his son’s confirmation and pays the priest extra depending on his son’s position in the ceremony (number one).
3. Securing a Wealthy Marriage: Eight years after that, Thord arranges the banns to be published for his son’s marriage to Karen Storliden, the richest girl in the parish. He pays extra despite it only requiring one dollar.
4. Tragedy on the Lake: While rowing across the lake to discuss wedding arrangements, Thord’s son falls overboard and drowns. The son tries to grab the oar but fails to stay afloat.
5. Relentless Search: Thord spends three days and nights tirelessly searching the lake for his son’s body.
6. Grief and Change: A year later, a gaunt and aged Thord visits the priest, a stark contrast to his previous confident demeanor.
7. Legacy for the Lost Son: Thord donates a significant amount of money, half the value of his farm, to be invested as a legacy in his son’s name.
8. Letting Go of Material Wealth: This act shows Thord prioritizing his son’s memory over material possessions.
9. Finding True Blessing: When the priest questions Thord’s future plans, Thord simply replies, “Something better.”
10. A Father Transformed: The priest suggests Thord’s son has finally brought him a true blessing, and Thord tearfully agrees, signifying a change in perspective.

Literary Devices in “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

Literary Device	Example	Explanation
Allusion	Reference to Thord’s wealth and influence in the parish	Allusion is the reference to something outside the text, here, it refers to Thord’s social status and influence within the community.
Anaphora	“There is nothing else” repeated by Thord	Anaphora is the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses. Here, Thord repeats this phrase to emphasize his single-minded focus.
Antagonist	The circumstances leading to the son’s death	The antagonist is the force or character that opposes the protagonist. In this case, it’s the tragic circumstances that lead to the son’s untimely death.
Conflict	Man vs. Nature when the son falls overboard	Conflict arises when opposing forces clash. Here, it’s the struggle between man (Thord) and nature (the lake) when the son falls into the water.
Foreshadowing	The priest’s words to Thord about his son being a blessing	Foreshadowing hints at future events. The priest’s words about the son being a blessing subtly suggest the eventual tragedy that befalls Thord’s family.
Hyperbole	Thord’s relentless search for his son’s body	Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement or claim not meant to be taken literally. Thord’s relentless search emphasizes the depth of his grief and determination.
Imagery	Description of the calm, still lake	Imagery uses sensory language to create a vivid mental picture. The description of the serene lake evokes a tranquil atmosphere contrasted with the tragedy.
Irony	Thord’s son, who was meant to be a blessing, dies	Irony is a contradiction between what is expected and what actually occurs. Thord’s son, intended as a blessing, meets a tragic fate, which is ironic and unexpected.
Metaphor	“The lake lay there as smooth and bright as a mirror”	A metaphor compares two unlike things by stating one thing is another. Here, the calm lake is likened to a smooth, bright mirror, emphasizing its tranquility.
Motif	The theme of fatherhood and loss repeated throughout	A motif is a recurring element that reinforces the central themes of a work. Here, the motif of fatherhood and loss underscores the emotional core of the narrative.
Paradox	Thord’s son, the supposed blessing, leads to tragedy	A paradox is a statement that appears self-contradictory but may reveal a deeper truth. Here, the son, meant to bring blessing, becomes the source of tragedy.
Personification	“The lake lay there as smooth and bright as a mirror”	Personification attributes human qualities to non-human entities. Here, the lake is described as laying smooth and bright, as if it possesses human-like characteristics.
Repetition	“There is nothing else” repeated by Thord	Repetition emphasizes a point or idea by restating it. Thord’s repetition of this phrase underscores his singular focus on the matter at hand.
Symbolism	Thord’s son symbolizing both blessing and tragedy	Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or concepts. Thord’s son symbolizes both the potential for blessings (hope) and the reality of tragedy (loss).
Theme	The complexities of fatherhood and grief explored	Theme is the central idea or message conveyed by a work. Here, the story explores the complexities of fatherhood and the profound grief that accompanies loss.
Tone	The solemn and melancholic tone throughout the story
Tragedy	The death of Thord’s son is a tragic event in the story	Tragedy is a genre characterized by events leading to the downfall of the protagonist. Here, the death of Thord’s son is a central tragic event in the narrative.
Verbal Irony	Thord’s statement that he has no troubles	Verbal irony occurs when a character says one thing but means another. Thord’s claim of having no troubles contrasts sharply with the tragic events that unfold.
Flashback	Thord reflecting on past events with the priest	A flashback is a scene set in a time earlier than the main story. Here, Thord reflects on past events with the priest, providing insight into his character and journey.

Characterization in “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

Major Character:

• Thord Overaas:
• The wealthy and influential protagonist undergoes a significant transformation throughout the story. Here’s how Bjørnson develops him:
  • Actions:
    • Initially prideful – arranges a special baptism, boasts about his son’s achievements.
    • Materialistic – throws money at confirmation and wedding.
    • Grief-stricken and persistent – searches relentlessly for his son’s body.
    • Charitable – donates a large sum in his son’s name.
  • Dialogue:
    • Focuses on wealth and status – mentions “no troubles” and boasts about his son’s ranking.
  • Indirect Characterization:
    • Priest’s observations – comments on Thord’s lack of aging (shallow life) and questions if his son brings blessings.

Minor Character:

• The Priest: Serves as a foil to Thord, highlighting his flaws.
  • Actions:
    • Observant – notices Thord’s lack of change and his focus on money.
    • Insightful – questions Thord’s motives and prompts reflection.
  • Dialogue:
    • Gentle but thought-provoking – asks if Thord’s son is a blessing.

Explanation:

The story follows Thord’s journey from a self-absorbed man concerned with wealth to someone who understands the importance of emotional connection and giving. The priest’s role is crucial in highlighting Thord’s flaws and prompting him to re-evaluate his priorities.

Major Themes in “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

Theme	Example	Explanation
Fatherhood	Thord’s request to present his son for baptism	Thord’s journey as a father begins with the symbolic act of presenting his son for baptism, highlighting his initial hopes and responsibilities as a parent.
Loss and Grief	Thord’s relentless search for his son’s body	The tragic death of Thord’s son plunges him into deep grief, depicted through his desperate search for the body, emphasizing the profound impact of loss on the protagonist.
Redemption	Thord’s decision to invest his wealth as a legacy	Thord’s transformation from a man driven by material wealth to one seeking spiritual fulfillment is evident in his decision to invest his wealth as a legacy, symbolizing his journey towards redemption and growth.
Legacy	Thord’s investment in his son’s name as a legacy	Thord’s choice to invest his wealth as a legacy in his son’s name reflects his desire to honor his child’s memory and contribute to a better future, exemplifying the enduring impact of familial bonds and the legacy one leaves behind.

Writing Style in “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

• Sparse Dialogue: The story relies heavily on dialogue, but it’s brief and direct. This keeps the focus on the characters’ actions and unspoken emotions.
• Vivid Descriptions: Bjørnson uses selective details to create impactful imagery. Descriptions like “calm, still day” on the lake and Thord rowing “round and round the spot” paint a picture of grief and desperation.
• Focus on Action: The story progresses through actions rather than lengthy explanations. We see Thord’s changing behavior towards his son through his actions at the baptism, confirmation, and wedding.
• Shifting Time: The story jumps forward in time, with phrases like “One day sixteen years later” or “Eight years more rolled by.” This keeps the narrative focused on key events in Thord’s emotional journey.
• Emotional Impact: Despite the short length, the story evokes strong emotions. The son’s tragic death and Thord’s grief are conveyed powerfully through Bjørnson’s writing choices.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

1. Marxist Theory: Marxist theory examines literature through the lens of social class, power dynamics, and economic conditions. In “The Father,” one can interpret Thord’s character and his interactions with society from a Marxist perspective. Thord, as the wealthiest and most influential person in his parish, represents the bourgeoisie, while the peasant community symbolizes the proletariat. Thord’s wealth and status shape his actions, such as his ability to pay the priest generously or his social standing affecting his son’s marriage prospects. The story reflects the unequal distribution of wealth and power, highlighting societal hierarchies and the impact of economic factors on individual lives.
2. Feminist Theory: Feminist theory focuses on gender dynamics, power structures, and representations of women in literature. While “The Father” primarily revolves around Thord’s experiences, the female characters, such as Karen Storliden, Thord’s son’s bride, offer avenues for feminist analysis. Karen’s role in the story is largely defined by her familial wealth and social status, as indicated by her being the “richest girl in the parish.” Her agency and voice are overshadowed by male characters like Thord and the priest. Examining Karen’s character and the treatment of women in the story sheds light on patriarchal norms and societal expectations of gender roles during the time period.
3. Psychoanalytic Theory: Psychoanalytic theory, stemming from Freudian psychology, explores the subconscious mind, motivations, and conflicts of characters. Thord’s journey in “The Father” can be analyzed through a psychoanalytic lens, particularly regarding his relationship with his son and the trauma of his loss. Thord’s relentless search for his son’s body, despite the inevitability of death, reveals deep-seated psychological conflicts, such as guilt, grief, and the desire for redemption. His actions and emotional responses can be interpreted as manifestations of unconscious desires and anxieties, providing insight into his psyche and inner turmoil.
4. Reader-Response Theory: Reader-response theory emphasizes the role of the reader in interpreting and constructing meaning from a text. In “The Father,” readers’ interpretations may vary based on their personal experiences, beliefs, and cultural backgrounds. For instance, readers may empathize with Thord’s grief and moral journey, interpreting his actions as a universal exploration of love, loss, and redemption. Alternatively, readers may critique Thord’s character and societal values, highlighting themes of class inequality, patriarchy, and the limitations of traditional masculinity. Reader-response theory underscores the active engagement of readers in shaping their understanding of the text and the multiple perspectives it offers.

Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements about “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

• Topic 1: Transformation Through Loss
• Question: How does the loss of his son impact Thord’s character?
• Thesis Statement: Bjørnson uses Thord’s changing relationship with his son and the grief over his death to portray a profound transformation from materialism and self-absorption to an understanding of love and loss.
• Topic 2: The Significance of Symbols
• Question: What role does the lake play in the story?
• Thesis Statement: The lake functions as a symbolic representation of Thord’s emotional journey. Initially calm and serene, it becomes a place of desperate searching and ultimately reflects his newfound peace.
• Topic 3: The Priest as a Foil
• Question: How does the priest’s character serve to highlight Thord’s flaws?
• Thesis Statement: Through the priest’s observations and insightful questions, Bjørnson exposes Thord’s shallowness and self-importance, prompting the reader to consider the importance of emotional connection.
• Topic 4: Minimalism and Emotional Impact
• Question: How does Bjørnson’s writing style contribute to the story’s impact?
• Thesis Statement: Bjørnson’s minimalist approach, utilizing sparse dialogue, vivid descriptions, and a focus on action, amplifies the emotional core of the story, making the themes of grief, transformation, and love resonate powerfully with the reader.

Short Questions/Answers about/on “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

• How does Thord initially present himself in the story?
• Thord’s introduction in “The Father” paints a picture of a man consumed by pride and materialism. We see this in his very first actions. He doesn’t simply bring his son for baptism; he arranges a special ceremony on a weekday, showcasing a desire for distinction. His boastful remark, “That is because I have no troubles,” further reveals a shallow understanding of life, focusing solely on outward success. When he pays the priest for his son’s confirmation and wedding, the focus is on the amount (“Here are ten dollars” and “three dollars”) rather than the occasion itself. These initial interactions establish Thord as someone more concerned with wealth and status than emotional connection.
• What event exposes a turning point in Thord’s relationship with his son?
• The sudden and tragic death of his son by drowning marks a clear turning point in Thord’s relationship. Up until this point, his interactions with his son have been impersonal and transactional. However, when his son falls overboard, Thord’s immediate reaction is one of desperation. His cries of “Take hold of the oar!” and “Wait a moment!” showcase a sudden surge of paternal concern. The most significant change comes after his son sinks. The story describes Thord “holding the boat still, and stared at the spot where his son had gone down,” refusing to believe his loss. His relentless search for the body over “three days and three nights” highlights a depth of grief previously unseen. This event shatters Thord’s self-absorbed exterior and forces him to confront the emotional void in his relationship with his son.
• How does the priest act as a foil to Thord?
• The priest serves as a moral compass throughout the story, his observations and questions highlighting Thord’s flaws. A subtle example of this is the priest’s comment on Thord’s lack of aging. While seemingly a compliment, it can be interpreted as a suggestion that Thord’s life lacks emotional depth, leading to a stagnant appearance. More directly, the priest questions if Thord’s son brings him “blessings.” This simple inquiry challenges Thord’s self-perception and prompts the reader to consider the true meaning of having a child. By showcasing a deeper understanding of human connection, the priest acts as a foil to Thord’s initial self-absorption.
• What is the significance of the ending of the story?
• The story’s ending portrays Thord’s profound transformation. He starts by selling his farm, a symbol of his past materialistic focus. This act suggests a detachment from the things he once valued most. The large sum of money he donates in his son’s name signifies a shift in priorities. It’s no longer about personal gain; it’s about giving back and honoring his son’s memory. Finally, Thord’s tears, a stark contrast to his initial stoicism, showcase a newfound vulnerability and acceptance of his grief. The priest’s gentle observation, “I think your son has at last brought you a true blessing,” underscores Thord’s emotional journey. He has moved from a place of self-absorption to one of understanding and compassion, a true “blessing” brought on by his son, even in death.

Literary Works Similar to “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

1. “Ghosts” by Henrik Ibsen: Like Bjørnson, Ibsen was a prominent Norwegian playwright and contemporary of Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson. “Ghosts” explores themes of family secrets, societal expectations, and the consequences of past actions, similar to the moral complexities examined in “The Father.”
2. “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller: Arthur Miller’s play delves into the struggles of a father, Willy Loman, as he grapples with his perceived failures and the disillusionment of the American Dream. The play examines themes of family dynamics, identity, and the pursuit of success, resonating with the themes of fatherhood and redemption in “The Father.”
3. The Road by Cormac McCarthy: While stylistically different from “The Father,” McCarthy’s novel shares themes of parental love, loss, and the struggle for survival. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, “The Road” follows a father and son’s journey across a desolate landscape, highlighting the enduring bond between parent and child amidst bleak circumstances.
4. Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev: Turgenev’s novel explores generational conflicts and societal changes in 19th-century Russia. Through the relationship between the conservative father figure, Nikolai Petrovich, and his progressive son, Arkady, the novel delves into themes of tradition, rebellion, and the evolving role of family in society.
5. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini: Hosseini’s novel portrays the complex relationship between fathers and sons against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s turbulent history. Through the protagonist Amir’s journey of redemption and reconciliation with his past, the novel examines themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the enduring impact of familial bonds.

Suggested Readings about/on “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

• Boyesen, Hjalmar Hjorth. “Björnstjerne Björnson as a Dramatist.” The North American Review 116.238 (1873): 109-138.
• Bjørnson, Bjørnstjerne. The Novels of Björnstjerne Björnson: Magnhild & Dust. Vol. 6. W. Heinemann, 1897.
• Bjornson, Bjornstjerne. In God’s Way. BoD–Books on Demand, 2020.
• Willcox, Louise Collier. “Bjornstjerne Bjornson.” The North American Review 192.656 (1910): 44-55.
• https://www.britannica.com/summary/Bjornstjerne-Bjornson

Representative Quotations from “The Father” by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson

Quote	Context	Theorization
“That is because I have no troubles,”	This is Thord’s response to the priest’s comment about him aging well.	This quote reveals Thord’s initial self-absorption. He equates a lack of visible problems with a good life, failing to recognize the emotional void in his relationships.
“I did not wish to pay the priest until I heard what number the boy would have…”	Thord says this after his son is confirmed.	This quote highlights Thord’s materialism. He seems more concerned with his son’s outward achievement (ranking) than the religious ceremony itself.
“But now I am through with him,”	Thord says this after arranging his son’s wedding.	This quote foreshadows Thord’s eventual transformation. Here, he displays a coldness and detachment, considering his parenting duties over.
“For three days and three nights people saw the father rowing round and round the spot…”	This describes Thord’s relentless search for his son’s body.	This quote signifies a turning point. Thord’s desperate actions demonstrate his grief and a newfound depth of emotion.
“It is half the price of my gard. I sold it today.”	Thord reveals how much money he is donating to charity.	This quote showcases Thord’s significant change. Selling his farm, a symbol of his wealth, demonstrates his shift in priorities.
“I think your son has at last brought you a true blessing.”	The priest’s observation about Thord’s son.	This quote summarizes Thord’s journey. His son’s death, though tragic, has forced him to confront his emotions and become a more compassionate person.