Culture in Denmark

Denmark's culture and society stems from long history and an ethnically homogeneous people. In Denmark, culture can be described through these three aspects of Danish life: Simplicity, politeness, and propriety. Countries are very diverse in their family values and gender roles, so it's important to do some research before you embark on a journey abroad. If you'll be traveling to Denmark, learn a bit about the culture, home and work environment so you'll be prepared to behave properly and treat women in a culturally appropriate manner. For the Danes their cultural heritage is very important. Denmark is an egalitarian society. Interestingly this is reflected in their language, which employs gender-neutral words. A simple life is the essence of the culture of Denmark. Not much weight is given to possessions or high income, and bragging is considered to be quite rude. Most Danes are modest about their own accomplishments and are more concerned about the group than their own individual needs. Maternity and paternity leave provisions are particularly generous in Denmark. Men are more actively involved in child-rearing activities than in many countries, although the division of domestic chores is similar to other developed countries. Also the Danish songs, the food and their flag called "Dannebrog" are yet further examples of the value the traditions hold for the Danish people.

 

Women in Danish Society

In terms of gender roles, men are more actively involved in child care activities than in many other countries, although the division of domestic chores is similar to other developed countries. Women within Danish society expect and receive equal treatment in business and in law, and for the most part this is true. However, many Danish women's groups still believe that there is a "glass ceiling" imposed on the advancement of women to the highest levels of business. Women are highly respected in business and generally receive equal pay and have access to senior positions. Shake hands with women first when you enter a room, making sure to treat them respectfully by looking them in the eyes. Working mothers can easily arrange flexible hours so that they can maintain both a career and a family. Most children attend day care from about one year old. Danish women expect to be treated with respect in the office. 37% of the members of the parliament, the Folketing, are women. Gender discrimination in job advertisements is prohibited. The public childcare system enhances women’s opportunities to pursue a career outside the home. Around 95.7% of all children aged 3-5 are looked after in day-care institutions.

 

"Hygge" and freedom of opinion

One of the fundamental aspects of Danish culture is "hygge" which expression is translated as"coziness"  but is more akin to "tranquility". Hygge refers to the complete absence of anything annoying, irritating or emotionally overwhelming but also includes the concept of presence and pleasure coming from comforting, gentle and soothing things. Hygge is often associated with family and close friends. Christmas time, for example, when loved ones snuggle together by candle light on a cold rainy night is "hygge" as is grilling a přlse (Danish sausage) on a long summer evening. These examples do not accurately define "hygge" but can still give an English speaker the idea of a deeply valued traditional concept in Danish culture. Danes also value their interpretation of freedom of opinion "ytringsfrihed" or freedom of speech. This might appear to be rude to an outsider but it is not intended to be. For example, a Dane may call an opinion "stupid"  without meaning offence. Hygge and Christmas are closely related in Denmark. Unlike many other western languages, Danish has no separate word for Christmas. The closest Danish equivalent is “Jul”, the current spelling of the ancient word Yule which was adopted after the introduction of the letter “J” in the Danish alphabet. As such, the word does not refer to the birth of Christ but instead to an ancient pagan winter feast. Naturally, its customs have changed throughout the ages but it has always been part of Scandinavian culture. This winter feast was such an integral and popular part of pagan culture that in order to convert Scandinavians into Christianity, these traditional celebrations had to be transferred and re-presented in traditional Christian holidays.

 

Dining Etiquette

In Denmark it is not uncommon to be invited to someone's home. You should always arrive on time as Danes are punctual in both business and social situations. When invited by a Dane - to visit their home, join them at their table or engage in an activity - don't hesitate to accept the invitation. Check to see if you should remove your shoes before entering the house. Danes generally don't strew invitations out of politeness, and only say it if they mean it. The same goes for compliments. Bring a small gift; chocolate, flowers or wine. It is a good idea to contact the hostess beforehand and enquire whether she would like you to prepare and bring a dish along. Also, offering to help the hostess with the preparation or the clearing up is an appreciated gesture. Danes enjoy showing off their homes since they have usually done the decorating themselves and are proud of their accomplishments. Therefore, they are happy when you ask for a tour of their house. Remember despite their disregard for formality, to practice good table manners while at restaurants or in people's homes. Greetings between people who know each other (e.g. are good friends, close relatives, etc.) is often in the form of a careful hug. It is rare to see a peck on the cheek as a form of greeting, and it might be taken as way too personal.

 

Proper Public Behaviour

Danes believe that there is a proper way of behaving in any given circumstance. Should you not follow the (un)written code of proper behaviour, someone will remind you of the rules and ask you to obey the accepted protocol.  Danes expect courteous behaviour from everyone. Talk in moderate tones and do not do anything to call attention to yourself. Greetings are often casual accompanied by a firm handshake, direct eye contact and a smile. It is common to shake hands and say farewell individually at arrival or departure. Denmark appears to follow rather informal traditions and Danes tend to introduce themselves with their first names.

 

Here are some general cultural norms:

 

1. Be punctual, few things can make the Danes more annoyed than showing up later, even by minutes, than the agreed time, save social gatherings at people's homes, where the requirements for punctuality is much more relaxed.

2. If there are free seats on a bus or train, it's not customary to seat yourself next to strangers if you can avoid it or to initiate a conversation with a local - Danish culture views this as being somewhat disrespectful.

3. Danes try to abridge differences between social classes. Modesty is a virtue - bragging, or showing off wealth, is considered rude, as is loud and passionate behaviour. Economic matters are private - don't ask Danes questions like how much they earn, or what their car costs. As in Germany, Britain, and the rest of the Nordic countries, weather is a good conversation topic.

4. Even though 82% of the population is officially Lutheran, Denmark is by and large an agnostic country. Investigations into people's faith is largely unwelcome, and outside places of worship, displays of your faith should be kept private. Saying grace for example, is likely to be met with bewilderment and silence. Religious attire such as Muslim headscarfs, Kippahs or even t-shirts with religious slogans, will - while tolerated - also make many Danes feel uncomfortable.

5. If in Denmark on business, it's important to note that family nearly without exception takes priority over work. So don't be surprised if Danes excuse themselves from even the most important of meetings by 4PM to pick up kids, a burden equally shared between the sexes.