Christianity Vs Traditional Beliefs
The first theme Hanna Pylväinen explores in The End of Drum-Time is Christianity versus traditional beliefs. The inhabitants of the Arctic Circle are traditionalists who believe in their gods. When Lars arrives in the Arctic Circle to introduce Christianity, he faces opposition from the locals because they do not believe in Jesus Christ. Consequently, the novel looks into the unique factors in Christianity and traditional beliefs that unify humanity. At last, the Sámi reindeer herders embrace Christianity.
Love
The other significant theme in the novel is love. When Lars and his daughter arrive at the Arctic Circle, they are shocked at how people live and how they worship. After some time, Lars' daughter falls in love with a youthful Sámi reindeer herder. Lars' daughter and Sámi, a reindeer herder, start a romantic relationship that Lars prohibits and refuses to bless. As a result, Lars' daughter becomes disrespectful and defiant because she will do anything to love her newfound sweetheart.
Optimism
Optimism is another significant topic in the novel. Lars is depicted as an optimistic and passionate man who does not give up, no matter the circumstance. When Lars introduces Christianity to the Sámi reindeer herders, he faces stiff opposition because the locals do not recognize the new religion. However, Lars does not give up until the first person converts to Christianity. Many Sámi reindeer herders slowly acknowledge Lars' preaching and convert to Christianity. Therefore, Lars' optimism, passion, and determination pay off after he achieves his ultimate goal of transforming the Sámi reindeer herder into Christianity.
