The End of Drum-Time

Willa Laestadius, the daughter of Pastor Lars Levi Laestadius, is a central figure whose journey encapsulates the thematic conflict between spiritual fervor, personal freedom, and societal constraints. As a dynamic character, Willa's attempted evolution from a dutiful daughter into an independent woman grappling with her own beliefs and desires is integral to the narrative. Initially, Willa is portrayed as contemplative and obedient, aligning with her father's religious expectations. As the novel progresses, she navigates the tensions between her family's expectations and her emerging feelings for Ivvár. Her speech often reveals this inner conflict, reflecting a balance between respect for her father's authority and a yearning for a different life. This is particularly evident in her interactions with Ivvár, where her dialogue is charged with both curiosity and hesitation.

Willa's actions further develop her character. She seeks solace in nature, symbolizing her desire for freedom and escape from the confines of her constrained existence. Her decision to join Ivvár’s siida is a bold step that marks her break from her father's control and her pursuit of a self-determined life. Despite her efforts to forge her own path, Willa’s identity continues to be shaped by external forces. Her transformation is marked by her acceptance of the consequences of her choices, and she becomes "Mad Willa," a moniker that reflects how society defines her based on her father's reputation and her unconventional actions. This highlights the complexity of her journey as her desires for independence and self-definition are continually thwarted by the rigid expectations and perceptions of her community. Thus, Willa's arc is one of striving for personal freedom amid persistent external constraints, illustrating the broader themes related to cultural conflict and the impact of social norms on individual identity.

Henrik, the bell ringer and store owner, is both an antagonist and a tragic figure within the story. His characterization is complex, blending elements of a flawed individual driven by personal vices and societal pressures. Henrik's physical appearance as a beleaguered storekeeper contrasts with his aspirations for a better life. His occupation and actions, particularly his illegal alcohol sales, highlight his moral ambiguity and the desperation that drives his choices.

Henrik's interactions with Nora and his strained relationship with his uncle Frans reveal his vulnerability and longing for redemption. His speech, marked by a mix of bravado and insecurity, reflects his internal conflict and desire for acceptance. Throughout the narrative, Henrik's arc transitions from a man clinging to his vices to someone attempting, albeit unsuccessfully, to make amends for his past. His actions and downfall are heavily influenced by the oppressive settler society that surrounds him. The pressure to conform to the settlers’ societal, coupled with the financial and moral expectations placed upon him by his uncle, create an environment in which Henrik's flaws are exacerbated. His reliance on selling alcohol and his desperate attempts to recover debts from the Sámi reflect the broader societal conflicts and the economic exploitation inherent in the settler society. His demise during the climax, where he is killed in a confrontation with Ivvár, underscores the tragic dimensions of his character, serving as a cautionary tale of the destructive nature of unresolved inner conflict and societal pressure.

Risten is a young Sámi woman caught between her cultural heritage and the pressures of her engagement to Mikkol Piltto. As a round and dynamic character, her journey is marked by her internal struggle with societal expectations and her unresolved feelings for Ivvár. Her physical description as a determined and skilled individual reflects her resilience and her connection to her Sámi roots. She is torn between her commitment to her duties and her longing for personal happiness. The ending, where Risten leaves without Willa, further illuminates her character and the broader themes at play. Her decision to continue moving forward with the reindeer signifies her commitment to her cultural heritage. By choosing to uphold her responsibilities and support her community, Risten embodies the perseverance of Sámi traditions despite the pressures of the settler society.

This departure without Willa underscores the irreconcilable differences between settler/Christian and traditional/Indigenous societies. While Willa faces ostracization as an outsider seeking to escape her constrained life, Risten’s actions reflect her understanding that her identity and future are intrinsically linked to the survival of her people and their way of life. Her character arc demonstrates the strength required to navigate these complexities. This underscores the potential impact of colonization, where the inability to harmonize settler and traditional societies forces individuals like Risten to make definitive, often painful, choices.

Pastor Lars Levi Laestadius, often referred to as Mad Lasse, is a central figure representing the religious fervor and moral rigidity that clashes with the traditional Sámi way of life. Physically described as a stern and intense figure, his presence commands attention and instills both awe and fear among his parishioners. As a devout pastor, his unwavering belief in divine signs and strict moral codes creates tension within the community, particularly with the Sámi people. Lars Levi’s sermons are passionate and fervent, emphasizing repentance and forsaking traditional practices, which he views as sinful. This rigid mindset often puts him at odds with the more fluid and nature-centric beliefs of the Sámi, who have their own spiritual practices and cultural traditions.

The clash between Lars Levi’s fervent Christianity and the Sámi way of life highlights the broader impacts of colonization, where Indigenous practices are marginalized in favor of settler beliefs, leading to tension and resistance within the community. Lars Levi represents the imposition of settler values on Indigenous traditions, illustrating the destructive impact of such cultural and spiritual impositions on the Sámi way of life.