Dutch Golden Age

The Dutch Golden Age was a period in Dutch history, roughly spanning the 17th century, in which Dutch trade, science, and art were among the most acclaimed in the world.

Literature

In the 17th century the center of literary activity shifted from the southern Netherlands to the northern part of the country. This was at least partly caused by the northward migration of artists and intellectuals, who took refuge from the Spanish oppression during the Eighty Years War, especially after the fall of Antwerp in 1585.

Related Topics:
Antwerp - 1585

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Renaissance influences were soon found in lyrical poetry and drama. Classical dramas were written, with unity of place, of time and of action, as prescribed by Aristotle. Stories were based on Dutch history and the Bible. The most famous drama was Gijsbrecht van Aemstel, written by Joost van den Vondel in 1637. For centuries this piece, commonly known as The Gijsbrecht, was played in Amsterdam each year on New Year's Day, a tradition that only ended in 1968. The story is situated around 1300 and tells about the dangers that constitute a major threat to Amsterdam's existence after the death of count Floris V of Holland.

Related Topics:
Joost van den Vondel - 1637 - 1968 - Floris V of Holland

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Baroque influences would soon show up in Dutch literature, much more so than in the other arts. Late in the century literary achievements became more rare, when writers started to imitate predecessors and to formalize literary styles.

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The most famous Dutch men of letters of the 17th century were: G.A. Bredero, Jacob Cats, P.C. Hooft, Joost van den Vondel

Related Topics:
G.A. Bredero - Jacob Cats - P.C. Hooft - Joost van den Vondel

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For more details and names see Dutch Golden Age, List Of People - Literature

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