Hanna Astrup Larsen (1873–1945) was an influential Norwegian-American writer, editor, and translator who played a pivotal role in introducing Scandinavian literature to English-speaking audiences. Born in Decorah, Iowa, she dedicated her career to fostering cultural exchange between the United States and Nordic countries during the early to mid-twentieth century.\n\nLarsen is most widely recognized for her extensive editorial work with the American-Scandinavian Foundation (ASF). She joined the American-Scandinavian Review as its literary editor in 1913, a position she held until 1921 when she was promoted to editor-in-chief. In the same year, she was appointed as the literary secretary of the ASF. In this dual capacity, she oversaw the publication of the foundation's journal and personally edited more than 70 books, establishing herself as a key gatekeeper and promoter of Scandinavian letters in America.\n\nThrough her translations, editorial curation, and literary leadership, Larsen helped bridge the cultural gap between her Norwegian heritage and her American home. Her efforts provided a platform for Nordic writers and ensured that their works reached a broader international audience. She passed away in Elmsford, New York, in 1945, leaving behind a rich legacy of cross-cultural literary advocacy.
