Sources:
-At least 2 lectures (I will send them separately as it will not let me attach the files here)
-The article “L. Cruz, ‘Turning Dutch: Historical Myths in Early Modern Netherlands’, The Sixteenth Century Journal 39 (2008) 1: 3-22. THIS ARTICLE IS ATTACHED HERE.
-The book “A History of the Netherlands From the Sixteenth Century to the Present” by Friso Wielenga (PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU CAN ACCESS THIS BOOK)
-2 separate outside sources
Assignment:
The Dutch Golden Age is a very important historical period. Not only has it turned the Netherlands (temporarily) into a world power, relying on perhaps the first ‘modern economy’ and able to trade, fight wars, and act as colonizer across the globe. Effects of that golden seventeenth century can still be felt in Dutch society today, to the extent that an important part of what the Dutch think of themselves, their society and their identity is shaped by this Golden Age. In this assignment, you are asked to reflect upon the use made of that Golden Age in a narrative that connects history with present-day Dutch society and identity.
Your essay should make use of the following article: L. Cruz, ‘Turning Dutch: Historical Myths in Early Modern Netherlands’, The Sixteenth Century Journal 39 (2008) 1: 3-22
You should also refer to at least two of the previous lectures in the following manner: (in a foot- or endnote): As stated by Dr. Erika Kuijpers in her lecture Tolerance & Migration in the Netherlands (March 11, 2019).
Your essay should also include an assessment as to how Friso Wielenga has approached, in his introduction and first chapters, the topic of the Golden Age. Is he simply describing events as they really happened? Does he represent his narrative as the only possible interpretation of history, or not? Do you think there are more interpretations possible? Which ones? Is he offering a deeper analysis? Is he connecting Golden Age history to the present, and if so, how? These are some of the questions you could use when constructing your argument.
Besides the material suggested above, you should integrate at least two other readings in your essay.
The essay should be around 2,000 words.