E2: Taking Leave

In episode 1 we explored the historical background of Norwegian emigration—what drove people to leave and what did the world look like to those who made the great leap. In this episode we take a closer look at the act of departure itself. Leaving Norway in the 19th century was not just a physical transition but also an emotional and social rupture. For most, home was a lifelong anchor, and breaking free from the security of family, kinship ties and the last itself was dramatic. Yet, many women chose to leave—hoping for freedom, new opportunities, and a chance to shape their own future. In episode 3 we meet some of those who made this decision. We follow among others Martha Georgina Larsen, who left Ryfylke in 1825, and Linka Preus, who wrote thought-provoking reflections on women’s roles in society. We also hear Lina Svåi’s gripping account of her final day at home before setting off for America. Through letters, diaries, and historical sources, we get closer to the thoughts and emotions of those who stood on the docks in Stavanger and Bergen, ready to say farewell to everything they knew. What were they giving up? What did they hope to find? ‍ Script: Inger-Kristine Riber and Reidun Horvei Co-editor: Katherine Jane Hanson Sound design: Inger-Kristine Riber Supported by: Fritt Ord Sources can be found here