Definition
Nordisk familjebok (often abbreviated as N.F.) is a comprehensive Swedish-language encyclopedia published in several revised editions between the late 19th and mid‑20th centuries. It served as a major reference work for Swedish speakers and covered a broad range of subjects including science, history, culture, and geography.
Overview
The first edition, known as the “first edition” (Första upplagan), was issued in 20 volumes from 1876 to 1899. A substantially revised “second edition” (Andra upplagan) followed, expanding to 22 volumes and appearing between 1904 and 1926. The “third edition” (Tredje upplagan), often referred to as the “large edition” (Stora nordisk familjebok), comprised 38 volumes released from 1929 to 1947, with an additional supplementary volume published in 1952.
Nordisk familjebok was produced by the publishing house Nordisk familjeboks förlag, based in Stockholm. The encyclopedia was notable for its scholarly contributions, with articles written by experts and academics of the period. It became a standard reference in Swedish libraries, schools, and households, influencing the dissemination of knowledge in Sweden and other Nordic countries.
In the digital age, the content of the third edition was digitized and made available online through the Swedish National Library (Kungliga Biblioteket) and other cultural heritage platforms, providing free public access to the historic text.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Nordisk familjebok” translates literally from Swedish as “Nordic Family Book.” The term “familjebok” historically denotes a comprehensive, household reference work intended for use by families. The adjective “Nordisk” emphasizes the work’s focus on Nordic subjects and its target audience across the Scandinavian region.
Characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Language | Swedish |
| Format | Print volumes (later digitized) |
| Editions | Three main editions (1876‑1899; 1904‑1926; 1929‑1947) plus a supplemental volume |
| Number of volumes | 20 (first), 22 (second), 38 + 1 supplement (third) |
| Content scope | General knowledge; extensive entries on natural sciences, technology, arts, literature, biography, geography, and Nordic history |
| Contributors | Academics, scholars, and subject‑matter experts of the respective periods |
| Publishing house | Nordisk familjeboks förlag, Stockholm |
| Digital availability | Fully searchable online edition of the third edition, hosted by the Swedish National Library and other archives |
| Historical significance | Served as Sweden’s most authoritative encyclopedia before the rise of modern, multi‑language reference works such as Britannica and Wikipedia; influential in education and scholarly research throughout the 20th century |
Related Topics
- Swedish encyclopedias – Other major reference works such as Svenskt biografiskt lexikon and Nationalencyklopedin.
- Encyclopedic publishing – History of encyclopedia production in Europe.
- Digitalization of cultural heritage – Projects converting historic printed works to searchable digital formats.
- Nordic cultural history – The role of reference works in shaping knowledge dissemination in Scandinavia.
- Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) digital collections – Comparative international efforts in preserving and providing access to historic encyclopedias.