Top 10 of Dutch Literature translated into English

Dutch literature has produced some remarkable works that have been translated into English. Here are a few notable titles we can recommend you to read.

1. “The Discovery of Heaven” by Harry Mulisch (1992). A sprawling novel that mixes philosophy, science, and religion in a tale about the fate of humanity. It’s one of Mulisch’s most famous works and is considered a modern classic.

2. “The Assault” by Harry Mulisch (1982). Set during World War II and the post-war period, this novel delves into the impact of war on individuals and society. It’s a powerful story about guilt, memory, and trauma.

3. “The Evenings” by Gerard Reve (1947). A darkly humorous and existential novel about a young man’s mundane life in post-war Amsterdam. It’s often regarded as one of the best Dutch novels of the 20th century.

4. “Max Havelaar” by Multatuli (Eduard Douwes Dekker) (1860). A critical novel about Dutch colonialism in Indonesia, exposing the exploitation and corruption within the colonial system. It’s a classic in Dutch literature and has had a significant impact.

5. “The Following Story” by Cees Nooteboom (1991). A philosophical and poetic novel that explores themes of life, death, and the passage of time. Nooteboom is one of the most internationally recognized Dutch authors.

6. “Rituals” by Cees Nooteboom (1980) . Another notable work by Nooteboom, this novel explores the lives of three men in Amsterdam and their different approaches to life’s rituals and meaning.

7. “The Dinner” by Herman Koch (2009). A contemporary novel about two couples meeting over dinner to discuss a serious crime committed by their teenage sons. The story delves into moral dilemmas and family dynamics.

8. “The Darkroom of Damocles” by Willem Frederik Hermans (1958). A tense and ambiguous novel set during World War II, it follows a man who becomes involved in the Dutch resistance and questions of identity and morality.

9. “A Posthumous Confession” by Marcellus Emants (1894). Often considered one of the first psychological novels in Dutch literature, it’s the chilling story of a man reflecting on his life and the murder of his wife.

10. “The Secret Diary of Hendrik Groen, 83 1/4 Years Old” by Hendrik Groen (2014). A humorous and heartwarming novel presented as the diary of an elderly man in a retirement home, capturing the challenges and joys of old age.

These ten works of Dutch literature represent a range of themes and styles, from historical and philosophical works to contemporary and psychological novels. They also offer a unique window into the soul of the Netherlands, capturing its history, culture, and the Dutch way of thinking.

As you explore these stories, you’ll not only enjoy some of the finest Dutch writing but also gain a richer appreciation for the language and the culture that shaped them. Dive into Dutch literature, and let these tales be your guide to discovering the Netherlands in a whole new way.

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