
Norway is perhaps one of the most misinterpreted characters,
so I thought I would flesh out the other, lesser-known sides of him. He
actually has a pretty wonderful personality, possessing several unique oddities
and quirks that make Nordic-centred strips a pleasure to read.

Misconception:
Norway’s emotionless.
Norway’s far from cold and emotionless. If anything, he’s a
bit spacey and pensive, which can sometimes give off the impression of indifference. Other countries have made
note of this, claiming that Norway “thinks from an entirely different dimension.”

Remember that Norway is able to see and communicate with
magical creatures, including England’s. It’s not so much that he’s detached
from emotions, but that he’s occasionally detached from the real world given
how mundane, trivial, and boring it can be.


Misconception: He’s
not close with the other Nordics

While Norway may make passive-sarcastic remarks or even
blunt quips towards the other Nordic countries, he cares about them deeply.
It’s not obvious because he’s a very timid character and doesn’t necessarily
express this affection in an open manner.
After showing concern for Denmark’s health, Denmark refers
to Norway as a worry wart.

Norway is also noted to stick his nose into Iceland’s business a lot.
Notice the use of words. While bugging Iceland may be a bonus for Norway, who
does in fact enjoy teasing Iceland, there’s a clear emotional investment to
look after his little brother’s well-being.

Misconception: He
doesn’t have a sense of humour.
Norway has a great and subtle sense of humour, albeit odd.
He and Iceland refer to each other as punks (totally
adorable).

When Iceland has trouble getting his goods noticed on the
market, the other Nordics develop a plan to help the former out. During their
brainstorming, Norway jokes and says that he’ll dance as part of the process.

Misconception: He’s
mean
Norway has a gentle and shy way of showing his kindness that
is often overlooked.
Back to the idea of him poking his nose into Iceland’s
business, Iceland secretly doesn’t mind Norway’s interference. There’s nothing
but good intentions on Norway’s part, as he’s always looking after Iceland’s
best interest.


Speaking of which, remember that time when Norway didn’t
know what present to buy for Iceland?
Norway sends Iceland a link while they’re both outside a
present shop and gives Iceland the option to choose what he wants. Iceland gets
flustered and tells Norway that anything will do.



Sweet, thoughtful, sarcastic, and subtle, that’s just how Norway (t)rolls.
