ABSTRACT

It is hardly profound to declare that the Arctic is a wondrous and inspirational place. And while there may be other places on Earth where the sound of insects is persistent, the Arctic offers that cacophony 24 hours a day. Seeing the Arctic as a wondrous and inspirational place reflects a certain philosophy and spirituality. A review of the body of literature and art dedicated to the Arctic supports a similar sense of place, or the notion of a connection to the inspirational aspects of the region. The Arctic sublime, then, is a specific cultural notion that implies that the Arctic holds some physical or psychological mysteries connected to the human psyche and that in-depth understanding will allow humans to appreciate a renewed sense of purpose with the land. The Arctic features long, dark nights in the winter months and long days of sunlight during the summer months.