Taking ski tracks to the north: the invention and reinvention of Norwegian polar skiing: sportisation, manliness and national identities

摘要

Norwegian explorers have for more than a century made a strong presence in the polar areas. One of their distinctions was their dedicated use of skis. This article examines the Norwegian affection for skiing in the polar areas. The will to quest and conquer the polar extremes, as well as the inland glaciers of Greenland, has been a part of Norwegian polar history, to such a degree that it can be termed a national characteristic. Through primary and secondary literature and other sources, the article discusses the historical background of this cultural practice, and how it has been able to survive into modern times. What is the significance of these modern expeditions which might otherwise be seen as mere repetitions of historic ventures? The article discusses polar skiing in the perspectives of modern sport, national identities and manliness.