Norway has significant cultural differences from other European countries. It is ruled by folklore and ancient customs, while the main principle of traditions in the upbringing of children in Norway is tolerance, which is primarily manifested in relation to same-sex marriage. This country is an example of how centuries-old traditions and quite modern tendencies can combine in culture.
Features of culture and traditions in Norway
The indigenous population from the Middle Ages was engaged in reindeer herding and fishing, with special respect to the masters who owned art craft. The house for Norwegians plays a major role, and they have always invested a lot of energy and soul in its design. To date, artisans who create things for the traditional decor of houses, there is very little, but the tradition to decorate the house has survived. Therefore, when you find yourself in Norway, the first thing that catches your eye is the interior and exterior of residential buildings. The main attributes of the house are:
- drawings on walls and doors - usually flowers or images on biblical themes;
- wooden furniture;
- Forged Products;
- decorated tablewares, dishes, crockery, etc.
Traditions are preserved in clothes, but do not think that Norwegians go in national dresses every day. It is rather displayed in its elements: buttons, brooches, pendants and other accessories are decorated with elements of national drawings or are made of wrought iron, deerskin, otherwise the species is quite "European".
Family traditions of Norway
A people who has great respect for their home can not with less regard for the family. Some customs and customs of life in Norway differ significantly from European ones. For example, a few centuries ago, young people could live together before the wedding. Newlyweds do not expect help from their parents, and grandparents do not have the habit of helping their grandchildren financially, even if they find themselves in a difficult situation. It is also surprising that an engagement can happen in early childhood, but as long as future husband and wife grow up, their parents often manage to dissolve it. The reason can serve even discontent with the nature of the second half of their offspring.
Tourists will be interested to see the traditions of Norway associated with the wedding. Firstly, the celebration is celebrated from two to seven days. According to ancient traditions, the whole community participates in it. All the relatives and friends of the newlyweds are invited to the wedding. Since the population of the country is scattered over the islands, the guests traveled to the celebration on boats, and everyone knew where the ship was sailing, it was hung with bells and other bright attributes. Today you can get to the place by bridge or other civilized way, but many do not deny themselves the pleasure of a ride on a "wedding" boat. The celebration itself is noisy and fun, and the bride must keep a heavy silver crown on her head all the days of the wedding.
Christmas is the main religious and family holiday in the country. In Norway, strictly observe the tradition of celebrating Christmas. Everyone loves the character of Yulebuk, who personifies this holiday. In each house at this time, always decorate the Christmas tree, prepare delicious meals and, of course, visit the church. Surprisingly, the wish of "Merry Christmas" sounds in Norwegian as "God Jul!". At the same time, which means "Jul" is not known even to the indigenous residents. Perhaps, this is the most interesting cultural tradition of Norway.
Musical culture in Norway
The music of Norway has much in common with the similar art of Denmark and Sweden. Modern works are based on folklore and classics. At the same time the founder of Norwegian music is Edward Grieg, who took an active part in the development of musical culture in the middle of the XIX century. In his music he managed to show the life of the country, its beautiful nature and the main qualities of the Norwegian people - kindness and hospitality.
Culture of communication in Norway
Visiting this country, you need to know the main rules of communication, since Norwegians in many respects differ from Slavs:
- Less emotion. The local population is very restrained, even under the influence of alcohol they do not raise the tone and do not conduct emotional conversations - this is considered bad form.
- You can not give way to older people in transport. This rule is incomprehensible for us, but a true Norwegian of old age will be offended if you want to give way to him - he is still full of strength and is not going to give in to the young.
- You can and you can ask in the street. Norwegians are very sociable and friendly people. They will answer any of your questions and tell as much as their stock of English words is enough. If you know the Norwegian language, then you will have many friends among the local population.
Speaking about business culture in Norway, local people are very honest and reliable partners. Even if it concerns some domestic issues, you can safely rely on their word.