The Incredible Adventures of Lasse-Maja, Told by Himself

A thief and adventurer nicknamed “Lasse-Maja” for sometimes dressing as a woman, was known throughout Sweden in the early 19th century. For his numerous criminal exploits, Lars Molin (1785–1845) – for that was his real name – eventually ended up in prison and wrote his memoirs there, sharp and engaging, like a picaresque novel, capturing the everyday life and customs of his time, including the life of prisoners. The popularity of these endlessly republished recollections outlived the author: even in the mid-1930s, it was said that in the province, people primarily read “Lasse-Maja and the Bible.” The inscription on the memorial stone erected in honor of Lasse-Maja reads: His cradle – Ramsberg, Arboga – his grave, And his memory – in the court record.