Author
Multatuli
1820-1887
Multatuli (1820-1887) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Multatuli
Max Havelaar; $b or, the coffee auctions of the Dutch trading company
"Max Havelaar; or, the coffee auctions of the Dutch trading company" by Multatuli is a novel published in 1860. The story follows Max Havelaar, a Dutch colonial administrator who battles against corrupt government systems in Java. Through contrasting narrators—a pompous coffee merchant and a romantic apprentice—the novel exposes the brutal exploitation of Indonesian farmers under Dutch colonial rule. This powerful protest against colonial policies ultimately influenced Dutch governance and inspired nationalist movements that would reshape the future of colonialism worldwide.
Max Havelaar Of de koffiveilingen der Nederlandsche Handelsmaatschappy
"Max Havelaar" by Multatuli is a novel published in 1860 that exposed the brutal realities of Dutch colonial rule in Java. When idealistic administrator Max Havelaar confronts systematic corruption and exploitation of Indonesian farmers, his story becomes a searing indictment of empire. Narrated through contrasting voices—a self-satisfied Dutch coffee broker and a romantic apprentice—the novel builds toward a passionate plea to the Dutch king, sparking colonial reform and ultimately inspiring Indonesia's independence movement.
De Geschiedenis van Woutertje Pieterse, Deel 1 Uit de 'ideen' verzameld
"De Geschiedenis van Woutertje Pieterse, Deel 1" by Multatuli is a novel that appeared as fragments in his work "Ideeën." The story follows Wouter Pieterse, a dreamy and poetic boy growing up in a petit-bourgeois Amsterdam household during the French period. His curious, imaginative nature constantly clashes with the narrow-mindedness of his surroundings, forming the central conflict of this coming-of-age tale. This work became Multatuli's second-most famous after "Max Havelaar."
Max Havelaar
"Max Havelaar" by Multatuli is a novel published in 1860 that exposed the brutal realities of Dutch colonial rule in Java. When idealistic colonial administrator Max Havelaar attempts to fight a corrupt system exploiting Indonesian farmers, his story becomes a searing indictment of imperial power. Framed through the cynical perspective of a Dutch coffee broker and his romantic apprentice, the novel builds toward a direct plea to the Dutch king, ultimately sparking reforms that would reshape colonial policy and inspire future independence movements.
Walter Pieterse: A Story of Holland
"Walter Pieterse: A Story of Holland" by Multatuli is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative follows the young protagonist, Walter Pieterse, as he navigates the challenges of childhood, loves, and society’s expectations in Amsterdam. The story highlights his quest for identity and adventure through humorous and poignant observations of his surroundings and the people within them. The opening portion of the work introduces Walter as a contemplative boy in Amsterdam, characterized by both innocent curiosity and a sense of longing for romance and adventure, which he finds through literature. He becomes enamored with a book, “Glorioso,” and is caught in a web of social pressures illustrated by his interactions with friends and family. Walter's inner thoughts reveal a rich imagination yearning for a life far removed from the mundane realities of his upbringing, setting the tone for a narrative that explores themes of youth, aspiration, and the impacts of societal norms. The prose is layered with wit and a critical view of social structures, giving readers a nuanced portrayal of life in 19th-century Holland.
De Geschiedenis van Woutertje Pieterse, Deel 2 Uit de 'ideen' verzameld
"De Geschiedenis van Woutertje Pieterse, Deel 2" by Multatuli is a novel that appeared as fragments in the author's work "Ideeën." The story follows Wouter Pieterse, a dreamy and poetic Amsterdam boy growing up in a petit-bourgeois environment during the French period. His curiosity and imagination constantly clash with the narrow-mindedness of his surroundings, forming the book's central theme. This beloved work ranks as Multatuli's most famous after "Max Havelaar."
Minnebrieven; Over Vrijen-Arbeid in Nederlandsch Indië; Indrukken van den dag
"Minnebrieven; Over Vrijen-Arbeid in Nederlandsch Indië; Indrukken van den dag" by Multatuli is a collection of letters and reflections written in the late 19th century. The work addresses social issues related to labor in the Dutch East Indies and reflects on the injustices faced by the people there. The narrative combines personal sentiments with broader critiques of society, making it a poignant commentary on the state of colonialism and human rights. The opening of the work presents a correspondence in which Multatuli expresses his complex feelings toward a named Doctor in Literature, blending personal anecdotes with deeper considerations of social responsibility and human dignity. He discusses the plight of the impoverished, particularly emphasizing the harsh realities faced by families and the indifference of those in power. A dialogue emerges between a character seeking assistance and another who reflects on the true meaning of love, burden, and the societal neglect of the vulnerable. Overall, the beginning establishes a serious yet introspective tone, setting the stage for a thought-provoking exploration of these critical themes.
Specialiteiten
"Specialiteiten" by Multatuli is a philosophical essay written during the late 19th century. The work delves into the complexities of societal roles and the concept of specialization, exploring how individuals are often pigeonholed into specific functions based on arbitrary criteria, questioning the effectiveness and righteousness of such classifications in both professional and social realms. The opening of "Specialiteiten" introduces the author's satirical and critical examination of the phrase "the right man in the right place," suggesting that the phrase has been hollowed out to the point of becoming a mere cliché devoid of real meaning. Through a lively dialogue between characters, the author critiques how society judges individuals on superficial criteria and reflects on their suitability for specific roles. The discourse weaves in humor and irony, setting the tone for a deep exploration of the true essence and value of specializations in various domains, establishing a foundation for the arguments that follow.