Swedish culture has many interesting components in regards to their customs, traditions, and lifestyle. The Swedes are a humble group of people that live in an egalitarian lifestyle, which dominates many facets of their lives. In the Swedish culture, there are a number of customs and traditions that can be found.
One of the dominating traits of Swedish culture is that they are egalitarian and humble. It is considered rude to talk too much, and they often prefer to listen to others, instead (ôSweden,ö 1). They also speak softly, as they prefer to not be too loud or show too much emotion. Swedes are also very grateful when it comes to bestowed acts of hospitality. Not saying thank you in Swedish culture is considered selfish (ôSweden,ö 1).
Behaviors in Sweden also favor a sense of balance, or everything in moderation. They frown upon flashiness and showing off. They usually attempt to follow a middle ground, rather than choosing an extreme. They also believe in working hard, but not too hard. Their focus is on making a good living so that they can provide for their families adequately. Everything is kept in moderation (ôSweden,ö 1).
Additionally, as the culture tends toward egalitarianism values, they do not encourage competition in their children. They raise their children to believe they are not any more special than other children (ôSweden,ö 1). Patriotism is an essential trait of the Swedes. They love their country, and this may be the only the only thing they ever boast about (ôCustoms and Culture,ö 1).
As far as dining customs, it is rare to be invited to a SwedeÆs house for a meal. Meals in Sweden are considered to be a private family affair. It is more likely to be invited over for ôcoffee and cake,ö or another type of sweet treat, very similar to tea time (ôCustoms and Culture,ö 1). Swedes are also very punctual people. It is important to be punctual, but not too early. They will often wait in their cars when arriving somewhere, or take a short walk so that they arrive at precisely the right moment (ôCustoms and Culture,ö 1).
For other etiquette customs in Sweden, Swedes typically remain quite reserved. To them, it is important for them to deal with more serious issues first, before relaxing and talking about less formal matters. Additionally, when visiting Swedes in their home, it is important to bestow a gift, such as flowers or chocolates (ôSweden,ö 1). However, it is important to not include white lilies or chrysanthemums, as these flowers are normally given at Swedish funerals (ôSweden,ö 1).
Swedes also value how they dress. Unlike other countries, where jeans and a casual shirt are considered acceptable for being in public, Swedes normally dress up in ôdress casualö when going out. This may include slacks, a warm shirt, and maybe a jacket (ôSweden,ö 1). Also, Swedes are not very personal people. They rarely hug or touch one another, except for shaking hands in public. Touching and hugging are intended to be done in the home during more private gatherings, such as birthdays or family dinners. Additionally, they frown upon wandering eyes in conversation, so it is important to maintain eye contact at all times, otherwise they will assume one is disinterested (ôSweden,ö 1).
In summary, there are a number of practices and customs associated with Swedish culture. As it is an egalitarian-based society, this influences many of their customs.
- “Customs and Culture – Studying in Sweden.” Studying in Sweden. 25 Dec. 2013. Web. 29 Sept. 2015.
- “Sweden – Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette.” Kwintessential. 2015. Web. 29 Sept. 2015.
