compilation of the epic Kalevala (the so-called Old Kalevala in 1835-36, the New Kalevala in 1849) and the Kanteletar, a collection of lyric poetry (first edition in 1840, the second in 1864, and a third in 1887.)

The interest in folk poetry which had already existed paved the way for a grateful reception for the Kalevala. Illustrative of the rise of a national awareness, which the publication of the epic caused, was J. G. Linsen's statement of 1836 that this treasure trove of ancient Finnish poetry was so significant that not only was Finnish literature immeasurably enriched with its publication but it had thereby gained world recognition: Finland, the possessor of this folk poetry, should with increased awareness learn to understand its past and thus also its future; Finland could assure itself that it, too, now had its history.

More intensive subsequent study of the folk poetry and its roots have altered the views expressed about the Kalevala when it first appeared, but they have not lessened its cultural and historical value. In its time the work has been a strong source of power in elevating the national feeling and keeping bright a faith in the future and thus maintaining among the Finns a confidence in their intellectual abilities, in tying the past to the present, in strengthening national cultural traditions and above all in inspiring scholars and poets to new and further investigations."

On the death of Nicholas I in 1855, Alexander II ascended the throne. By nature and upbringing he was more liberal than his predecessor, and he, too, gave the oath of ruler in Finland, promising to maintain Finland's special privileges. Furthermore, the necessity for improvements and increased pressure of public opinion also led to the Finnish Diet finally being called into session : in the year 1862, a committee of 48 were empowered to prepare the agenda, and on 15 September 1863 the Finnish Diet met for the first time since 1809.

In the history of the Finnish Diet the sessions in the 1860s form their own chapter. It was a period of liberalism, and many believed that the possibilities for social and governmental developments were almost limitless. The opening of the Diet was given a festive note by the arrival of the Czar for the occasion. The Czar-Grand Duke greeted the Estates, announcing that he would give them an accounting of the national economy and hand them a sheaf of proposals. The ruler stated his general political program to be the realization of constitutional-monarchic principles, and

11. op. cit. Erkki K. Osmonsalo, "Itsevaltiuden kausi," II, pp. 53-163.

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