Joukahainen
Nuori (Young) Joukahainen
Antagonist in the Kalevala
Karelian / Finnish Mythology
Joukahainen is the first adversary Väinämöinen faces in the stories of the Kalevala. He is a young but arrogant figure who wishes to prove his worth by besting Väinämöinen in a battle of words. However, his wit is no match for Väinämöinen, who begins to sink Joukahainen in the mud with his magic.
Afraid of death, Joukahainen offers his sister’s hand in marriage to Väinämöinen to save his life. This arrangement will ultimately lead to his sister, Aino, committing suicide to avoid the marriage.
Later, Joukahainen returns to exact revenge on Väinämöinen but misses him with his crossbow. As Väinämöinen dodges the shot, he ends up in a river. Ultimately, the river carries Väinämöinen to the land of Pohjola, where his adventures continue.
Characteristics of Joukahainen
Joukahainen’s traits teach the importance of wisdom and patience to overcome struggles. The interactions between Joukahainen and Väinämöinen symbolize the contrast between youth and age, recklessness and patience.
Arrogant – Despite his mother’s warnings, Joukahainen believes he is superior to Steady Old Väinämöinen. He continues his quest to challenge the old man to a battle of words that fails miserably.
Jealous – Joukahainen is jealous of Väinämöinen’s wisdom. By succumbing to jealousy, he proves that his youth and desperation are his biggest flaws.
Cowardly – After almost losing his life to Väinämöinen, he offers his sister, Aino, as a reward. Without first consulting with Aino, this action leads to his sister’s suicide.
Reckless – Despite warnings from his mother, Joukahainen seeks to prove his worth by besting Väinämöinen. This folly leads to tragedy and chaos.
Joukahainen’s Family
In the Kalevala, Joukahainen’s mother plays a role in trying to dissuade him from challenging Väinämöinen. As a result of this encounter, he offers his sister Aino to the old man. This unsolicited offering eventually leads to her tragic suicide by drowning in a lake.
- Mother: Unnamed
- Sister: Aino – The Drowned Maiden
Interactions in Kalevala
Väinämöinen is the only hero he interacts with throughout the Kalevala. Their encounters symbolize the difference between youth and age and the importance of wisdom and patience.
Joukahainen’s Appearance
Joukahainen is a proud and arrogant younger man. His perception of himself as a warrior exudes arrogance and pride. His demeanor is most often described as arrogant, vengeful, and reckless.
Realms
While he lives in Väinölä, the land of heroes, his travels also take him to the edge of Pohjola, where he seeks to ambush his rival.