Max Havelaar   By: Unknown (1820-1887)

Max Havelaar is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on the injustices and exploitation faced by indigenous people in colonial Indonesia. The story follows Max Havelaar, a Dutch colonial official, as he tries to navigate the bureaucracy and corruption that surrounds him. Through Max's eyes, the reader is exposed to the harsh realities of life for the local population, who are forced to work in harsh conditions and endure discrimination and abuse.

The novel is filled with vivid descriptions of the landscape and the people of Indonesia, drawing the reader into the world of colonial rule. The author's writing is rich and evocative, bringing to life the struggles and challenges faced by both the colonizers and the colonized.

One of the most striking aspects of the novel is its critique of colonialism and the way it dehumanizes both the oppressors and the oppressed. The author does not shy away from showing the brutality and hypocrisy of colonial rule, and forces the reader to confront the uncomfortable truths of history.

Overall, Max Havelaar is a profound and moving novel that raises important questions about power, privilege, and morality. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of colonialism and its lasting impact on society.

First Page:

Ich nenne das Buch schlichtweg »Max Havelaar«, da mir, dem deutschen Interpreten, der eigentliche von Multatuli ihm gegebene Titel »Max Havelaar oder die Kaffeeauktionen der Niederländischen Handelsgesellschaft« (»Max Havelaar of de koffiveilingen der Nederlandsche Handelmaatschappy«, geschrieben 1859, erschienen zu Amsterdam im Mai 1860) nach Ort, Zeit und Umständen weniger passend erscheint... Continue reading book >>