Bohème

Norwegian literary group

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June 22, 2026

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The "Bohème" was a Norwegian group of urban artists and writers who revolted against conventional morality. Led by novelist Hans Henrik Jæger, this group embraced an unconventional lifestyle, prioritizing artistic endeavors and community living over mainstream societal constraints. Jæger's novel Fra Kristiania-Bohèmen (1885) caused a scandal for its perceived assault on morality, leading to his imprisonment and dividing the Norwegian literary world. The term "bohemian" itself originated from the French word for Roma people, who were believed to have come from Bohemia and lived unconventional lives. This lifestyle, characterized by creative freedom and a rejection of materialism, later influenced movements in Europe and America, including the Beat Generation and hippies.123

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Hans Henrik Jæger
…leader of the Norwegian “Bohème,” a group of urban artists and writers in revolt against conventional morality. His role in Norwegian literature stems in part from the police suppression of his first novel.
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…leader of the Norwegian “Bohème,” a group of urban artists and writers in revolt against conventional morality. His role in Norwegian literature stems in part from the police suppression of his first novel.
Read More