Vondel's Lucifer

Joost van den Vondel

Sept 2022 · DigiCat

About this eBook

"Lucifer" is a masterpiece by Joost van den Vondel with the theme of the inexplicable rebellion of the angels against God. This controversial work deals with an angel who returns from Eden, with wings singed by the beauty of Adam and Eve's world, yearning for the pleasures of their flesh.

About the author

Joost van den Vondel (1587–1679) is often recognized as one of the most significant figures in Dutch literature, whose work left an indelible imprint on the literary landscape of the seventeenth century. Born in Cologne, he moved to Amsterdam with his family as a child, where he later emerged as a preeminent poet and playwright. Vondel's literary style is characterized by its grandeur and use of classical techniques, echoing the greats of antiquity in a distinctly Dutch vernacular. His mastery of the Dutch language and his capacity to address both humanistic and theological themes have led to his recognition as the 'Dutch Shakespeare'. Among his most acclaimed works is 'Vondel's Lucifer' (1654), a magisterial drama that retells the biblical story of Lucifer's fall from grace. This work, laden with political allegory and theological inquisition, echoes the epics of Milton and the tragedies of Sophocles, embracing a rich tradition while contributing a unique voice within the canon of Western literature. Vondel's contribution to the arts was not limited to his writings but also extended to his involvement with the Amsterdam theatre scene, where many of his plays were performed. His legacy endures not merely in the endurance of his texts but through the appreciation of scholars and enthusiasts of Dutch culture and literary heritage.