Olof Koskela, the only son is driven from home when he wants to marry the wrong girl. He takes a job as a floater. His reputation as a womanizer goes far and wide. When he meets the proud Kyllikki, he enters into a bet to defeat the mighty rapids standing on a log.

Brand is an alcoholic bricklayer who is forced to scabbing during bad times.

Countess Hedvig von Wärnfelt receives her orphaned niece Marianne to bring her up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Marianne is a spirited and vibrant young girl who is also an aspiring actress. The Countess is dismayed by her uneducated behavior and treats her severely.

The labor movement's emerging in Sweden. Welfare evolving. A young couple rents a modern apartment.