Eduard Douwes Dekker, a prominent and celebrated Dutch writer, was born in the year 1820, marking the beginning of a life that would ultimately be filled with both triumph and tribulation. His journey on this earth would eventually come to a close in 1887, leaving behind a lasting and indelible mark on the literary world. The pseudonym by which he is most commonly known, Multatuli, is derived from the Latin phrase "I have suffered much", a poignant reflection of the numerous hardships and challenges he faced throughout his life.
Multatuli, a renowned author from the Netherlands, has garnered widespread critical acclaim for his literary contributions. In the year 2002, the esteemed Maatschappij der Nederlandse Letterkunde, or Society of Dutch Literature, went so far as to dub him the most influential Dutch writer in the annals of literary history. This testament to his enduring impact is a fitting tribute to his remarkable body of work. To commemorate his legacy, the prestigious Multatuli Prize was established, serving as a beacon of excellence in the literary world, honoring the very best in contemporary Dutch writing.
Multatuli's profound influence transcends his native Netherlands, as he held a special place in the esteem of the illustrious psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud. In 1907, Freud meticulously compiled a list of his favorite literary works, with Multatuli's name occupying the topmost position on the prestigious roster. This remarkable recognition is a testament to the enduring impact of Multatuli's writing on the literary world.
Furthermore, a distinguished array of notable writers and intellectuals have expressed admiration for Multatuli's work, including the renowned Karl Marx, the celebrated French author Anatole France, the esteemed German writer Hermann Hesse, the accomplished Dutch writer Willem Elsschot, the influential brothers Thomas and Heinrich Mann, the talented Johanna van Gogh, and numerous pioneering feminists of the first wave of the women's liberation movement.
