Bjornstjerne Bjornson

Date of Birth: December 8, 1832

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: April 26, 1910

Biography

Bjornstjerne Bjornson was a renowned Norwegian writer, poet, playwright, and Nobel Prize laureate in Literature. Born in 1832, Bjornson is often celebrated as one of the “Four Greats” of 19th-century Norwegian literature, alongside Henrik Ibsen, Jonas Lie, and Alexander Kielland. He made significant contributions to the cultural and national identity of Norway through his literary works and political activism. Bjornson’s writing style was marked by its romanticism and nationalistic fervor, often focusing on themes of social justice, patriotism, and human dignity. He was also an ardent advocate for the Norwegian language and played a crucial role in the country’s cultural renaissance. Bjornson’s most famous works include the play “A Gauntlet,” the novel “The Fisher Maiden,” and the lyrics to the Norwegian national anthem “Ja, vi elsker dette landet.” His literary career was complemented by his involvement in politics, where he championed liberal causes and advocated for Norway’s independence from Sweden. Bjornson’s influence extended beyond literature, as he was also a public speaker and editor, known for his eloquence and persuasive arguments. In 1903, Bjornson was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his “noble, magnificent and versatile poetry,” solidifying his place as a literary giant. He continued to write and inspire until his death in 1910. Bjornson’s legacy endures through his contributions to Norwegian literature and national identity, and he remains a celebrated figure in Norway.

5 Interesting Facts about Bjornstjerne Bjornson

1. Bjornson wrote the lyrics to the Norwegian national anthem, “Ja, vi elsker dette landet.”

2. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1903.

3. Bjornson was a strong advocate for Norwegian independence from Sweden.

4. He was a contemporary and friend of Henrik Ibsen, another giant of Norwegian literature.

5. Bjornson was also an influential public speaker and political activist.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Bjornstjerne Bjornson

1. “He who has freedom and liberty has time enough.”

2. “The pride of youth is in strength and beauty, the pride of old age is in discretion.”

3. “The roots of the tree of liberty are watered with the blood of patriots.”

4. “A man’s real possession is his memory. In nothing else is he rich, in nothing else is he poor.”

5. “It is the national duty of every man to improve his nation.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Bjornstjerne Bjornson’s exact net worth during his lifetime is not well-documented. However, as a Nobel Prize laureate and a celebrated writer, it is known that he achieved considerable financial stability and acclaim, making him one of the more prosperous literary figures of his time.

Children

Bjornstjerne Bjornson had six children with his wife, Karoline Reimers. Their children were Bjorn Bjornson, Einar Bjornson, Erling Bjornson, Bergliot Bjornson, Dagny Bjornson, and Sigurd Bjornson. Notably, Bjorn Bjornson became a successful theater director, and Bergliot Bjornson married the famous Norwegian composer and pianist Rikard Nordraak, who composed the music for the Norwegian national anthem.