Kiusankappale

"Kiusankappale : Yksinäytöksinen ilveily by Martti Wuori is a one-act theatrical farce written in the early 20th century. Set in contemporary Helsinki, it playfully satirizes bachelorhood, office life, and the tug-of-war between vows and budding romance. The likely topic is a lighthearted workplace courtship that overturns a stubborn promise never to marry. In an office shared by the reserved librarian Dr. Osmo Laipio and his lively assistant Maire Telkiä, old friend Roope Rahkasuo arrives to investigate Osmo’s recent odd behavior. The men once swore an anti-marriage vow, yet Roope suspects—and half fears—that Osmo has fallen for Maire. After comic eavesdropping, misunderstandings, and Roope’s meddling (mixed with his own momentary infatuation), Osmo’s nerves and Maire’s warmth bring matters to a head. During a mock-serious “collation” of a document, Osmo turns the task into a proposal; Maire accepts. Roope jokingly releases his friend from their vow, and the trio heads off to celebrate, the “nuisance” of temptation having blossomed into an engagement.

Summary written by Project Gutenberg, by machine.