Influence to write Jerusalem

Published in two parts - first in 1901 and later in 1902 - Jerusalem: A Novel takes place over the course of a number of generations and tells the story of a handful of families in Sweden - as well as a number of Swedish emigrants in Jerusalem. Loosely based on history and real stories, Lagerlof painstakingly researched the accounts of many real emigrants to flesh out the story of these families - families who strived to find success and happiness in their lives. It explores themes of religious awakening, family bonds, history, and the power of kindness and acceptance.