De complete werken van Joost van Vondel. Vergelijking van de Verlossinge der Kindren Israels met de Vrijwording der Vereenigde Nederlandsche Provinciën, [etc.]

In this grand baroque poem, Vondel weaves together the ancient Exodus and the 16th‑century struggle for Dutch independence, drawing vivid parallels between the Hebrews’ flight from Pharaoh and the provinces’ resistance to Spanish rule. The verses unfold as a dramatic dialogue between biblical prophets and contemporary figures, each echoing the other's hope for deliverance. Rich, elevated language and intricate rhyme bring both the desert wandering and the low‑country battlefields to life.

Listeners are invited to follow the early stages of this sweeping comparison, where Moses’ plea to an unseen God meets the Dutch appeal for divine aid amid oppression. The poet’s vivid imagery paints Pharaoh’s ivory throne beside the harshness of Spanish tyranny, while the Dutch Prince‑states rally under the banner of faith. The first act sets a tone of solemn prayer and rallying courage, promising a deeper exploration of liberty and faith as the narrative progresses.