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- Lewén, Aurora, 1967-
(author)
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Resfeber : Berättelser från semesterns barndom 1938−1959
- 2017
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The dissertation provides an in-depth analysis of Swedes’ perceptions about vacations during the period of 1938 to 1959. The aim is to contribute to a more thorough understanding of vacation-related consumption, which in Sweden was of growing economic importance from the 1930s and onwards. The study examines perceptions about the relationship between vacation and work; the experience with nature; interactions with family members and other social relations; relaxation and rest, and the act of travelling. The dissertation also analyzes the adoption of the first Holiday with Pay Act in 1938 and examines how people vacationed during the period. Throughout the study class and gender are used as analytical categories. The principal source material is autobiographical recollections, which consist of written replies to questionnaires sent out by the Nordic Museum. Other sources include materials related to the introduction of the Holiday with Pay Act, mainly the Swedish Government Official Report and the parliamentary debate. Representations of vacations in magazine advertisements are also analyzed.Equalization between classes was an important reason for the adoption of the Holiday with Pay Act in 1938. Proponents of the legislation in parliament and, to some extent even the opponents, viewed equalization as a positive outcome of the reform. As a result of the legislation, blue-collar workers, both women and men, were able to enjoy vacations to a greater extent than before. However, large groups, mainly farmers, entrepreneurs, and housewives, continued to lack entitlement to paid vacations, a fact that were debated in parliament. Nevertheless, persons without legal entitlement to paid vacations still occasionally took time off and went on vacations.It was relatively common to travel during the vacation, even at the beginning of the period. The desire to experience a contrast to everyday life was prominent. People desired contrast not only with work but also with everyday life outside of work, including regular leisure time, something that is particularly evident in the autobiographical recollections. In one form or another, the desire for contrast permeated views on the various factors examined in the dissertation. Travel represented an ideal way to experience contrast. Nature was more interesting if it was located somewhere else, relaxation and rest was best achieved if one went away, and meeting new people was seen as more exciting than spending time with family.Overall perceptions concerning vacation were similar among blue-collar and white-collar workers of both sexes, as well as among housewives, farmers, and entrepreneurs. They all wanted to experience a contrast to everyday life. On a more detailed level, though, these desires took somewhat different forms depending on working conditions and economic circumstances. These common perceptions had economic significance, as going away meant more purchases than staying at home. It was not just a matter of spending what was required for the trip to happen. Travel and the desire for contrast had amplifying effects on other vacation-related consumption as well.An English summary of the dissertation is provided.
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