Beyond ceremony: The doctoral sword and the living history of Finland

Article ID: 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the under-examined Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Finland’s doctoral sword, which is a key symbol within its unique conferment ceremony. The ceremony is recognized by UNESCO and celebrates academic achievement. But the rich historical and cultural significance of the sword and Finnish academic dress more broadly remains largely unexplored and often relegated to a niche academic audience. This research traces the sword’s origins beyond its popular connection to figures like the artist Akseli Gallén-Kallela, and back through its evolution from Swedish and Russian traditions to recontextualize its contemporary interpretations. The findings reveal a significant gap between the wealth of historical context and the limited understanding of this ICH, even within Finland. The fact that this history was revealed through independent inquiry highlights a missed opportunity for broader cultural engagement by key stakeholders. This article argues for a more robust promotion of ICH, aligning with UNESCO’s Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. It advocates that initiatives such as collaborations between cultural institutions, researchers and media producers can effectively raise awareness at relatively low cost, enhancing appreciation and ensuring the vitality of this heritage for present and future generations. The article urges responsible bodies to move beyond treating ICH as a hidden, archived resource and to actively fulfill their obligations under the UNESCO charter. By making the intangible tangible and widely accessible, this study emphasizes the importance of actively promoting ICH to foster a deeper understanding of national identity and cultural history, exemplified by the case of Finnish academic dress.