Knut Hamsun

Knut Hamsun, originally born as Knud Pedersen, was born on August 4, 1859, in Lom, Gudbrandsdal, Norway. He grew up in a poor family, which later influenced his early works dealing with themes of hunger and struggle. His upbringing in rural Norway also had a profound impact on his literary style, characterized by a focus on nature and human emotions.

Knut Hamsun published 'Hunger' (Sult) in 1890, a novel that would later be recognized as a pioneering work of psychological literature. The book delves into the mind of a starving writer in Oslo, exploring themes of modernity and alienation. It established Hamsun as a leading literary figure, noted for his innovative narrative techniques and exploration of the irrationality of human nature.

In 1899, Knut Hamsun published 'Victoria,' a novel that tells the story of an unattainable romance between Johannes, a miller’s son, and Victoria, the daughter of a wealthy landowner. The novel is noted for its exploration of love, class division, and the struggles inherent to these themes. It further cemented Hamsun's reputation as a significant figure in world literature for his ability to portray complex emotional states.

Published in 1904, 'Pan' is a classic novel by Knut Hamsun that uses the medium of fiction to discuss themes of love and isolation as experienced by Lieutenant Thomas Glahn, the protagonist. This novel is beloved for its poetic portrayal of nature and exploration of the human psyche, and it solidified Hamsun's place in modern literature.

'Growth of the Soil' (Markens Grøde) was published in 1917 and is considered one of Hamsun's masterpieces. The novel offers a sweeping exploration of the life of a simple man in rural Norway, focusing on themes of agrarianism and man's connection to the earth. This work was instrumental in securing Hamsun's Nobel Prize in Literature three years later and remains highly influential.

Knut Hamsun was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1920 for his novel 'Growth of the Soil'. This work was praised for its portrayal of rural life and connection to nature, reflecting Hamsun's origins and longstanding interest in the dignity and struggles of the common man. The Nobel Prize significantly elevated his status as a premier global literary figure.

During the Nazi occupation of Norway, Knut Hamsun controversially met with Adolf Hitler in 1943. This meeting was arranged due to Hamsun's support for Nazi Germany, a stance that remains highly contentious. This support and meeting with Hitler caused a severe backlash after the war, as many in Norway viewed him as a traitor to his country, leading to significant damage to his reputation.

After World War II, Knut Hamsun was arrested on June 14, 1945, for his pro-Nazi activities and support during the war. His writings and public support for the regime led to widespread condemnation and a subsequent trial. Hamsun was deemed mentally incompetent to stand trial due to his age and deteriorating health but was later held in a psychiatric hospital and fined heavily, leading to a dramatic fall from grace.

In 1947, Knut Hamsun published 'On Overgrown Paths' (Paa gjengrodde Stier), a reflective memoir written while he was under facing charges of collaboration with Nazi Germany. The book details Hamsun's experiences and arguments in his own defense, providing insight into his perspectives and the complexities of his life post-WWII. It remains a significant, albeit controversial, part of his literary legacy.

Knut Hamsun died on February 19, 1952, in Nørholm, Grimstad, Norway, after spending the later years of his life in relative obscurity and controversy due to his wartime activities. Despite the scandal, he remains a towering figure in Norwegian literature, mostly known for his intensive psychological portrayals and exploration of human emotion and nature.