Scandihoovian! exhibit takes humorous view

The Swenson Swedish Immigration Research Center at Augustana presents the exhibit "Scandihoovian! Scandinavian-American Folk Humor" through Dec. 15.

The center is open 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4:30 p.m. weekdays.

Scandinavian-American humor centers around shared cultural beliefs and communication styles. These jokes often follow the misadventures of an immigrant in the New World, poking fun at the immigrant’s experience in ways that are both relatable and cringe-worthy.

Common themes emerge, such as ridiculing other Scandinavians (frequently Swedes vs. Norwegians), making fun of food choices (bland food, Jell-O, and “hot dishes”), language troubles, Lutheranism, employment, the weather and family relationships. (See photo album)

The Swenson Center is located in the Denkmann Memorial Building on 7th Avenue on campus. Parking is available in the nearby Centennial Hall lot.