Subject
Dutch fiction -- Translations into English Books
Best books
P. A. S. van (Petrus Abraham Samuel) Limburg Brouwer
Akbar: An Eastern Romance
"Akbar: An Eastern Romance" by P. A. S. van Limburg Brouwer is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the life of Emperor Akbar, depicting his reign, relationships, and influences as a ruler in the context of his court and the cultural dynamics of the time. Key characters introduced include Siddha Rama, a young nobleman, his betrothed Iravati, and the wise hermit Gurupada, all of whom navigate the complexities of loyalty, ambition, and personal aspirations against the backdrop of Akbar’s illustrious empire. The opening of the novel sets a lush and vibrant scene in the mountainous regions where Siddha Rama and his tutor, Kulluka, are en route to the Emperor's court. They first visit the hermit Gurupada, who imparts wisdom about life and morality, foreshadowing Siddha's impending responsibility as he transitions into the royal environment of Agra. As Siddha interacts with Gurupada, the narrative unveils themes of loyalty and duty, especially concerning the complexities within Akbar's kingdom and the familial bonds exhibited through Siddha's relationship with Iravati. This introduction effectively establishes both the historical context and the personal stakes that define the characters' journeys.
Frederik van Eeden
The Quest The authorized translation from the Dutch of De kleine Johannes
"The Quest" by Frederik van Eeden is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young boy named Little Johannes as he embarks on a fantastical quest filled with enchantment and wonder. A blend of fairy tale and philosophical exploration, the narrative unfolds in a richly imagined world where Johannes interacts with intriguing characters, including an ethereal being named Windekind, who becomes his companion and guide. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to Little Johannes, who lives in an old house surrounded by a lush garden that he has transformed into a magical place filled with adventure. As Johannes explores his environment, his vivid imagination allows him to think of his surroundings as a grand realm. One particular evening, he encounters Windekind, a brilliant manifestation of nature, who takes him on marvelous adventures filled with whimsical and profound discoveries. The opening chapters reveal Johannes' longing for deeper understanding and connection to his world, establishing themes of curiosity and the quest for knowledge that intertwine throughout the narrative.
Louis Couperus
Majesty: A Novel
"Majesty: A Novel" by Louis Couperus is a fictional work written in the late 19th century. It explores the intricacies of royal life and governance against the backdrop of political turmoil in Europe, focusing on the lives and struggles of royal characters, particularly Prince Othomar, heir to the throne of Liparia, as he grapples with the burdens of his title and the impending crises that threaten his family and reign. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to the imperial court of Liparia, where anxiety permeates the atmosphere due to external threats and internal political instability. The Empress Elizabeth contemplates her family's safety amidst a looming crisis, while Prince Othomar displays a deep, introspective turmoil over his inherited responsibilities—a reflection of his royal lineage's challenges. As various characters interact against this backdrop, hints emerge of personal relationships, societal expectations, and the emotional weight the characters carry as they navigate their positions amid the tensions surrounding them. The opening effectively sets the tone for an exploration of majesty, duty, and the human condition intertwined with the nature of power and monarchy.
Louis Couperus
Psyche
"Psyche" by Louis Couperus is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Psyche, the youngest princess of the Kingdom of the Past, who possesses delicate wings but yearns for the freedom of flight that eludes her. The opening chapters introduce Psyche's longing for adventure and her interactions with her two sisters, Emeralda and Astra, revealing themes of beauty, longing, and the burdens of royal expectations. At the start of the novel, we find Psyche wandering the vast battlements of her father's castle, peering into the unknown world below and dreaming of the freedom to explore beyond her confines. Despite the castle's towering grandeur and the beauty of her surroundings, she feels profoundly lonely, often escaping from her busy, beautiful sisters who embody the traits she lacks. The narrative weaves a fantastical atmosphere that hints at Psyche's inner turmoil and desires, setting the stage for her eventual encounters with the Chimera, a magnificent winged horse she admires. The opening chapters set up Psyche's conflict between her longing for liberation and the oppressive nature of her royal life, establishing a rich backdrop for her journey of self-discovery and love.
Louis Couperus
Old People and the Things That Pass
"Old People and the Things That Pass" by Louis Couperus is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores the emotional landscape of aging, focusing on the complex relationships within an elderly family as they navigate love, loss, and the passage of time. Central characters include Ottilie, a woman grappling with the realities of her old age, her son Lot, who is preparing to marry Elly, and Steyn, Ottilie's second husband, highlighting themes of jealousy, loneliness, and the struggle to connect with loved ones. The opening of the novel introduces us to Ottilie as she interacts with her son Lot over coffee and prepares for his impending marriage to Elly. There is a palpable tension in Ottilie's emotions; she feels a mix of jealousy and sadness at the prospect of losing Lot. As they converse, Ottilie's reflections reveal her insecurities about aging and the changes in her family dynamics, particularly her complicated relationship with her husband Steyn. Lot, while affectionate, expresses his conflicting feelings about marriage, pondering why he proposed to Elly. The scene sets the stage for deeper explorations into the nuances of family bonds and the inevitability of aging as the narrative unfolds.
Frederik van Eeden
Little Johannes
"Little Johannes" by Frederik van Eeden is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a young boy named Johannes who lives in a large old house filled with mystery and imagination, accompanied by his father, a dog named Presto, and a cat named Simon. This tale is a blend of fairy tale elements and a deep exploration of childhood wonder, as Johannes yearns for adventure and seeks to understand the world around him. The opening of "Little Johannes" introduces the protagonist living in an enchanting yet complex old house surrounded by a beautiful garden. Johannes engages his vivid imagination by naming the various rooms and places within the garden, turning them into magical realms filled with adventure. As he explores, he expresses a desire for miracles and deeper understanding. One evening, while gazing at a magical sunset, Johannes encounters Windekind, a fairy-like being who becomes his friend. Windekind guides Johannes into a world of nature and magic, promising friendship and adventures beyond his wildest dreams, setting the stage for the unfolding of their enchanting journey together.
Louis Couperus
Footsteps of Fate
"Footsteps of Fate" by Louis Couperus is a novel published in 1891. The story follows two lovers, Frank and Eve, whose relationship is destroyed by the manipulations of Frank's down-and-out childhood friend, Bertie. Living together in London, Bertie secretly hides Eve's letters to Frank, fearing he'll lose his companion's attention. When the truth emerges, the consequences prove devastating for all three. This dark tale of jealousy, betrayal, and fate sparked intense controversy upon publication, dividing critics between harsh condemnation and admiration.
Louis Couperus
Ecstasy, A Study of Happiness: A Novel
"Ecstasy, A Study of Happiness: A Novel" by Louis Couperus is a psychological novel published in 1892. The story follows widow Cecile van Erven and her complex relationship with Taco Quaerts, who sees her as an object of exalted love while she longs for something more earthly and human. Couperus explores themes of happiness and suffering through this tale of incomplete connections, glorifying a form of platonic love where spiritual devotion collides with unfulfilled desires, leaving his heroine caught between ecstasy and dissatisfaction.
A. L. G. (Anna Louisa Geertruida) Bosboom-Toussaint
Major Frank
"Major Frank" by A. L. G. Bosboom-Toussaint is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Leopold van Zonshoven, a man who unexpectedly inherits a vast fortune from a long-lost aunt, contingent upon him marrying her chosen granddaughter, Francis Mordaunt. The opening chapters set the stage for a tale of mixed fortunes, family intrigue, and the complexities of relationships amidst societal expectations. The beginning of "Major Frank" unfolds through a letter from Sir Leopold van Zonshoven, revealing his astonishment at suddenly becoming wealthy while also lamenting his prior struggles. He seeks advice from his friend, barrister William Verheyst, particularly concerning the unexpected condition that he must marry Francis, whom he has never met. An anonymous letter hints at potential complications ahead, foreshadowing a challenging journey for Leopold as he navigates the waters of familial relationships, societal expectations, and his burgeoning feelings toward the spirited Francis, dubbed "Major Frank" for her eccentricities. The narrative is rich with humor and social commentary as well as the dichotomy between wealth and personal desires.
Recently surfaced classics