Witches, Gypsy Girls, Runaways and Other Fallen Women

Aina Basso draws on historical events in her novels to depict how women have been betrayed by society. In books for both young people and adults, several of which have won awards, Basso depicts abuse and abuses of power – witch burnings, incest, and the persecution of Romani and gypsy women as well as of unmarried mothers and their children. Although the subject matter is grim, but this chapter of Norwegian history is also richly depicted with a steady expertise and great storytelling skill.

Who does Basso base her work on when she is delving into historical events? Why has she chosen the historical novel as her genre? And what is it about these women that fascinates her? Basso meets journalist and critic Jan H. Landro for a conversation about the betrayal of women throughout Norwegian history.

The conversation will be held in Norwegian.